Bears of Sheffield postponed until 2021

It is with a heavy heart that The Children’s Hospital Charity announce that the Bears of Sheffield sculpture trail has been postponed until the summer of 2021 due the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

The event, which was due to start in July, would have seen both big and little bear sculptures on display in both indoor and outdoor locations around Sheffield. It has been supported by 100 schools, more than 60 businesses and 60 artists from throughout the region.

Charity Director David-Vernon Edwards explained: “The Bears of Sheffield trail was designed to be open to all and unite businesses, communities, artists and schools from throughout the city and across the country in support of Sheffield Children’s.

“The enjoyment, health and safety of everyone taking part has always been our top priority. We are determined to continue to support the national effort to protect the NHS, save lives and slow the spread of coronavirus in line with the latest UK government guidance.

“We owe it to everyone who has backed this project with such enthusiasm to make it the best it can possibly be and that can only happen when everyone can enjoy the trail safely. With social distancing likely to continue as an essential requirement in the fight against Covid-19, we have taken the difficult decision to postpone the Bears of Sheffield until 2021.”

The Children’s Hospital Charity looks forward to bringing the Bears of Sheffield to the city next summer and will share the new trail dates at the earliest possible opportunity.

The project would have supported the appeal to transform the Cancer and Leukaemia ward at Sheffield Children’s Hospital and aimed to surpass the £600,000 raised during The Children’s Hospital Charity’s previous sculpture trail, the Herd of Sheffield.

The vital funds it was due to raise have never been more needed, as every day during the coronavirus pandemic brings new challenges and pressure on the hospital’s services.

David Vernon-Edwards continued: “Staff at Sheffield Children’s continue to work day and night to support the public, helping to care for some of those most at risk during the crisis, including children and young patients with underlying health conditions.

“We need your support to help the hospital continue its vital work in paediatric care, giving children the best chance to fulfil their potential and ensuring there is no long-term impact once this crisis is over. If you can help, then please make a donation. Whatever you can give will make a huge difference to our patients now and in the future.”

Donations to this fund have helped to fund additional resources to support staff wellbeing as well as craft activities, toys and games for young patients at this difficult time, with reduced contact measures now in place for their own protection.

If you would like to make a donation to support the patients and staff at Sheffield Children’s Hospital at this unprecedented time, you can donate online, call 0114 321 2470 or text SHEFFCHILDRENS to 70085 to donate £5. This costs £5 plus your standard message rate