Staffy sculptures unleashed across Staffordshire – here’s why

Colourful Staffy sculptures have been unleashed across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent to celebrate the area’s heritage and attractions. Inspired by the county’s beloved Staffordshire Bull Terrier breed, 11 smiling sculptures can be spotted at locations in Stoke, Stafford, Tamworth and Lichfield, with a trail to follow around the county for adventurers of all ages.

The Staffy Trail will run for 10 weeks and has been unveiled this week to mark the 10th anniversary of Staffordshire Day. May 1 was chosen to celebrate all things Staffordshire as it is also the anniversary of Josiah Wedgwood founding his pottery company in 1759.

Earlier this month Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire were celebrated in Parliament with a House of Commons event hosted by Stafford MP Leigh Ingham and Stoke-on-Trent Central MP Gareth Snell. The event, organised with We Are Staffordshire and fellow Staffordshire MPs Dave Robertson and Dame Karen Bradley, showcased more than 20 businesses, from global manufacturers GE Vernova and JCB to independent food and drink producers, and oatcakes were on the breakfast menu in the Members’ Tea Room.

In Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent celebrations started on Friday, May 1

Families are also being encouraged to explore the Staffy Trail by train or bus. An official app can be downloaded to follow the route, unlock rewards at each locations and find more things to see and do.

Stafford town centre has welcomed three Staffy sculptures for visitors to view. Local artists have worked with children and young people across the county to create eye-catching displays.

“Jasper” greets visitors at the first stop, outside Stafford Railway Station at the entrance to the town’s Victoria Park. Stafford-based illustrator Sarah Grateley teamed up with pupils from Marshbrook First School in Penkridge to design a cheery pup sporting an Emma Bridgewater-inspired bandana and footwear in a nod to Stafford’s shoemaking heritage, with patches depicting local attractions including Penkridge’s Jasper’s Bakery, Stafford Castle and Cannock Chase.

Outside Staffordshire Place – the headquarters of Staffordshire County Council – “Graham” showcases the history of the County Town. Stafford-based Ruth Allen, who has a focus on architectural illustrations, worked with Year 10 students from Sir Graham Balfour High School to create line-drawings of buildings and the group was also inspired by the town’s former Lotus shoe factory.

The third Stafford sculpture is “Kindred” and can be found in Market Square. Children from The Voice Project, a service which works with children, young people and families who receive support from Staffordshire County Council, helped artist Tom Edwards design a piece exploring themes of care and connection, featuring animals nurturing their young.

Staffordshire County Council leader Martin Murray said: “Staffordshire Day is a chance to celebrate everything that makes our county special, and this year marks a significant milestone as we celebrate its tenth anniversary.

“The Staffy Trail is a fantastic addition to this year’s celebrations. It will bring people into our towns, support local businesses and help showcase Staffordshire as the nation’s playground — a place full of energy, creativity and great experiences at the heart of the country.

“We’re proud to see this project come to life and look forward to welcoming visitors from across the country to explore everything we have to offer.”

Printed Staffy Trail maps are available from libraries across Staffordshire. To download the trail app and see more Staffordshire Day events visit https://www.visitstaffordshire.com/follow-staffy/.

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