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/