Blues to sponsor sculpture in St Elizabeth Hospice art trail

The big picture: The upcoming art trail will feature more than 35 decorated hare sculptures placed across Suffolk, marking the first time the initiative has expanded beyond Ipswich to include nearby towns.

Why it matters: St Elizabeth Hospice needs to raise around £12 million annually to maintain its services, with 70% of funding coming from community support. The art trail is a key fundraising initiative for the hospice, which supports over 4,000 people living with progressive or life-limiting illnesses across the region.

What they're saying:

"The Club is delighted to be supporting St Elizabeth Hospice's art trail next year," said Matt Holland, former Town midfielder and current board member. "We know from previous years how much joy the trails bring to families across Suffolk."

Liz Baldwin, Corporate and Sponsorship Fundraising Manager at St Elizabeth Hospice, said: "Having the Tractor Boys involved will add excitement to next summer's art trail, which is set to bring colour and creativity to the local community."

The details:

• This is the third hospice art trail supported by Ipswich Town FC

• Previous trails include Pigs Gone Wild, Elmer's Big Parade Suffolk and the Big Hoot Ipswich 2022

• New satellite locations will include Beccles, Felixstowe, Lowestoft and Woodbridge

• Each satellite location will feature at least six sculptures, including both large and small hares

The bottom line: The partnership between Ipswich Town FC and St Elizabeth Hospice continues a successful relationship that has already helped raise vital funds for hospice care across Suffolk.