The results are in – we have the winning designs for Wirral’s new Mermaid Trail!
The Trail will be placed at strategic locations in New Brighton, inspired by and celebrating the resort’s history, heritage, and its links with the mythical ‘Black Rock Mermaid’, who was said to have appeared to a local sailor in New Brighton in the 18th century.
In an open competition, schools and arts-based groups from across Wirral were invited to submit their ideas for decorating the six identical new Mermaid sculptures, which will be installed this May in New Brighton as part of a colourful new tourist trail.
The design for the sculpture is the work of Wallasey artist Barry Canning-Eaton, who will also decorate one of the statues.
The others will be decorated by:
- The Mosslands School, Wallasey
- Wirral Hospitals’ School, Claughton
- St George’s Primary School, Wallasey
- St Mary’s Catholic College, Wallasey
- Ebb & Flow, a community interest company which works with communities, including New Brighton.
Cllr Tony Jones, Wirral Council's Pledge Champion for building a vibrant tourism economy and Chair of New Brighton Coastal Community Team (NBCCT), said: "Given the amount of interest, it will be difficult keeping these fantastic designs a secret before the grand unveiling in May, but we want to launch the Mermaid Trail with a splash - excuse the pun!"
"The winning designs are distinctive and stunning, and people will love to see them as they walk around the town. Everyone will have their favourite."
"I would like to thank everyone who took part, not just the winners, but those who submitted their designs. A lot of thought and imagination has gone in, and we appreciate everyone’s efforts."
The five successful designs will each be credited with a plaque on their statue and the designers and sculptor will be guests of honour when the trail is officially launched.
The Mermaid Trail project is the result of a successful bid for funding by New Brighton Coastal Community Team to the Burbo Bank Extension Community Fund, a grant scheme set up by DONG Energy to benefit voluntary groups and organisations located near to the coastline where it is carrying out the extension to the offshore wind farm.