Bench art trail launched for Brighton and Hove

A new art trail will be coming to Brighton and Hove next year

A new art trail is coming to Brighton and Hove next year.

More than 30 "book bench" sculptures will be placed around the city from next September, designed by schools, community groups and artists, with the first one unveiled on Wednesday at The British Engineerium in Hove.

The art trail has been popular in previous years with Shaun the Sheep and snail sculptures dotted around the city.

It will be raising money for Amaze, a Sussex charity which supports families with disabled children.

The first book bench was unveiled on Wednesday at The British Engineerium in Hove

Hannah Allbrooke, head of fundraising and marketing at Amaze, told BBC Radio Sussex: "It's going to be a really exciting event where we will bring lots of people to the city to enjoy the trail.

"I worked on both the previous trails, I know the impact these can have on charities and how important it is.

"Benches are a chance to sit, pause and connect with other people and that's huge to what we do as a charity."

Ilona Drew, one of the artists who designed a book bench inspired by the city's Palace Pier and burnt out West Pier, said: "It was so exciting to be picked to paint the first bench.

"It's super colourful and highlights some of Brighton's beautiful landmarks."

Ilona Drew designed the first book bench which was unveiled on Wednesday

EastEnders actor Will Ellis, an ambassador for Amaze, said the charity helped his son who has the rare genetic condition Mowat-Wilson syndrome.

He said: "We didn't know where to turn to get the right support, Amaze held our hand through those early stages of his diagnosis and getting him the right support."

All funds raised through next year's art trail help Amaze to continue to offer practical and advisory services for the families who use their service.

The trail is being produced in partnership with global art producers Wild in Art. Businesses are also being asked to sponsor a bench.