Worcester's New Sound Trail Celebrates Three Choirs Festival’s Return to City

This summer, Worcester is set to enchant locals and visitors alike with a unique musical journey through the city, courtesy of the Worcester BID in collaboration with the historic Three Choirs Festival.

Running from July 27 to August 3, the Worcester Sounds Trail is an immersive experience that combines the city’s vibrant culture with its rich musical heritage. As part of the Three Choirs Festival, this trail will feature an array of performances and interactive installations throughout business locations in Worcester. There are 15 shield shapes trail stickers to find and 3 special gold ones, displaying key highlighted artists from the festival!

The Three Choirs Festival, one of the oldest classical choral music festivals in the world, dating back to 1715, returns to Worcester this year, promising an exceptional lineup of choral and orchestral performances. In conjunction with this prestigious event, the Worcester Sounds Trail aims to extend the festival's reach beyond traditional concert halls, inviting the community to explore the city's scenic spots while enjoying live music.

Visitors can expect a variety of performances from local and international artists, set against the backdrop of Worcester’s historic landmarks. Enjoy the music in the bustling city centre by taking the trail, offering a perfect blend of music and exploration, providing an engaging and dynamic way for city-goers to experience the festival's spirit.

The initiative not only celebrates Worcester's rich musical legacy with its ties to Elgar, but also supports local businesses by encouraging festivalgoers to explore shops, cafes, and restaurants along the trail. Worcester BID's efforts aim to boost the local economy while enhancing the cultural fabric of the city. Did you know that Worcester is over 67% independent?

Participants can access the trail map through the Worcester BID website or pick up guides at trail locations throughout the city, at the Three Choirs Festival Box Office or from the Tourist Information Centre located at the Guildhall.

The Worcester Sounds Trail is poised to be a musical highlight of the summer, offering a delightful fusion of music, history, and community spirit.

For more information on the Worcester Sounds Trail and the Three Choirs Festival, visit https://www.worcesterbid.com/2024/05/09/worcester-sounds-3cf/

by BID Team

The Penguin Patrol is Recruiting: Worcester to welcome 100 Young Guardians

On Monday, July 29th, Worcester will see a flurry of excitement as 100 children join the Penguin Patrol at Angel Place from 12:30 PM. This event marks the beginning of a unique initiative designed to engage the city’s young residents with The Waddle of Worcester art trail and its ongoing care.

The BID Safer Streets team, in collaboration with West Mercia Police’s Safer Neighbourhood Team, will host the Penguin Patrol Event, where children will receive police-style helmets and penguin stickers. The highlight of the event will be the teaching of the ‘Waddle Drill,’ ensuring that young participants learn the best ways to treat the penguin sculptures with care and respect.

This initiative is a proud partnership between Worcester BID, West Mercia Police, and The Waddle of Worcester.

Safer Neighbourhood Inspector for Worcester, Tanya Beckett, said: “We are delighted to support our community partners at Worcester BID during St Richard’s Hospice’s Waddle of Worcester art trail this summer and give the young people of the city a chance to go out on ‘Penguin Patrol’.

Please look out for our engagement van when you bring your family along to the trail for the chance to get some fun freebies for your budding police cadets!

This summer we will also continue to be working with partners at Worcester BID, Worcester University, Worcester Street Pastors, and other key organisations to run the Safe Space providing safer nights for vulnerable individuals.

The Safe Space mobile van serves as a haven at night, offering first response first aid care, reducing the strain on the NHS in the A&E department during night-time economy hours.”

Samantha McCarthy, CEO for Worcester BID added: “We’re thrilled to launch the Penguin Patrol initiative, inviting 100 young guardians to join us in caring for The Waddle of Worcester art trail. This event embodies our community spirit and dedication to further engaging our youth in meaningful, creative projects. Together with West Mercia Police and St Richard’s Hospice, we aim to foster a sense of pride and responsibility in our young visitors and look forward to seeing the enthusiasm and care our future penguin protectors will bring to this exciting initiative!”

Sara Matthews, Business Development Manager for St Richard’s Hospice, said: “We’re delighted to have Penguin Patrollers helping to keep our huddle happy out on the streets of Worcester.

“Please treat every member of the waddle with love and care by not climbing on them or hanging off their beaks.  This will ensure our giant penguins raise as much as possible for local hospice care and our chicks return to the schools and community groups who painted them in tip-top condition.

“If you see any damage or anything of concern please report it using the number on each penguin’s plinth.”

We look forward to seeing you on the 29th of July at 12:30 PM at Angel Place future penguin protectors!

Find out more and take the trail at https://waddleofworcester.co.uk/

by BID Team