A CHARITY behind a free public art trail is calling on artists to help make the event a success and raise money for children with incurable conditions.

Elmer’s Great North Parade will take place next August with decorated statues of the popular children’s picture book character, Elmer the Patchwork Elephant, across Tyne and Wear.

It is being held by St Oswald’s Hospice, which is based in Newcastle, Wild in Art and Elmer publisher, Andersen Press.

They are now calling on amateur and professional artists to individually decorate the 70 fibreglass statues, which will make up the trail.

Along with the large sculptures, the trail will feature more than 100 smaller Elmers, designed and decorated by North-East schools, youth groups and organisations.

Project curator Victoria Maddison said: “We welcome original designs from both emerging and professional artists across the region and beyond. This is a unique opportunity for artists to see their work being enjoyed and viewed by hundreds of thousands of people.”

Submissions must be made via greatnorthelmer.co.uk/artists before February 14.