Dolphins arrive for 2025 charity parade
More than 60 dolphins have arrived at the GSPCA, but rather than injured mammals, these were statues bound for this year’s Discovery Trail.
The dolphins, each more than a metre high, will soon be heading out to be decorated, before becoming part of the trail in the spring.
GSPCA manager Steve Byrne said there were still around a dozen dolphins which were looking for a sponsor.
‘We would still dearly love to hear from a few more companies or individuals who would be willing to put forward the £1,000 needed to sponsor a dolphin,’ he said.
‘We would also love to hear from a few more local artists who might want to put their skills to work.’
The dolphins are following in a prestigious line of local animals to be immortalised in fibreglass. In previous years goats, cows, puffins and donkeys have helped raised funds for local charities.
Last year’s Puffin parade raised more than £140,000 for the GSPCA and Autism Guernsey, which will be working together again for this year’s trail.
‘They are a much beloved and iconic animal from our local waters,’ said Mr Byrne.
‘And one we have helped to care for and rescue in the past.’
After being put on display around the island over the summer, the painted dolphins will come back together for the charity auction sometime in September.
‘Overall it is a lot of exposure for any of the sponsors with almost a full year of events,’ he said.
‘The trail brings in much-needed funds but also a lot of fun for everyone in the island.’
The GSPCA will be putting funding towards its new hospital, with building work due to begin this year. Preparation has already begun on site, with asbestos removed from some of the oldest buildings.
Anyone interested in sponsoring a dolphin or being an artist can contact dolphinparade2025@gmail.com.
