Giant Trail of Mermaid Tails Causes Splash

The announcement of an art trail featuring sculptures of giant mermaid tails is already causing ripples in Dorset, following the unveiling of the inaugural sculpture on 22 March at Rockwater...

Dorset artist Stuart Semple, the first person chosen to paint one of them, said: 'This is the catalyst to do something wonderful. To be able to contribute my art to something like the Great Tail Trail means the world to me. I really wanted to capture the imagination and excitement of childhood in my mermaid's tail."

The Prettiest Pink in the World

Dorset artist Staurt Semple said his tail would be "the prettiest pink in the world".

The free, family friendly trail launches on 5 April 2025 and will feature more than 40 sculptures, 6 feet (1.8m) in height, and span an area including Bouremouth, Christchurch, and Poole. Each colourful piece will have a unique design, be sponsored individually by a local business or organisation, and raise money for the children's hospice charity Julia's House. 

Laura Maidment, public fundraising manager at Julia's House, explained the mermaid theme: "We've especially chosen the mermaid tail sculpture as we have a Mermaid Suite at our Dorset hospice where we look after children at the end of their lives and support their families. It felt important to connect the trail directly to our care. The Great Tail Trail will help us fundraise and reach people and businesses who don't yet know about the lifeline of care we provide in the local community." 

As well as enhancing local community and encouraging families to spend time outside, the trail will add another attractive feature for tourist visitors. Sponsors of the trail include Organix, Norco, and Bournemouth Water. Nikki Barry, sustainability manager for Organix, said: "The Great Tail Trail will bring colour, vibrancy and excitement - inspiring families to spend time outside together in our beautiful area," while Vikki Slade, leader of BCP Council, added that the trail would create "a wonderful tourist attraction".

Mermaid Tails to be on Display Across County in Landmark Places

She continued: "Having visited Julia's House on several occasions I know first hand the inspirational work they do to support seriously ill children and their families. I would encourage everyone to get involved and look forward to taking part in the trail myself."

At the end of the 2025 trail, which will run for eight weeks, the sculptures will be brought together and auctioned to raise funds for Julia's House. 

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