Harry Redknapp admires mer-mazing artwork on Branksome Beach

A longstanding patron of Julia’s House, the former football manager and local resident met some of the charity’s staff and visited one of the colourful mermaid tail sculptures located on Branksome Beach. The fin-tastic artwork forms part of The Great Tail Trail situated around Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.

“Please come and visit the tails on The Great Tail Trail and support this wonderful charity, Julia’s House,” urged Harry as he admired ‘I Carrot Believe It!’ created by Bournemouth-based artist, Shelley Perry. The vibrant, fruit and veg-inspired tail is sponsored by children’s food brand, Organix.   

“We were thrilled that Harry was able to join the Julia’s House team at the beach and find out more about The Great Tail Trail,” said Laura Maidment, the charity’s Public Fundraising manager. “Harry is a terrific patron and always a huge support. Shelley’s beautiful design is one of 88 mermaid tails that can be found on the trail, all helping to raise money that will enable Julia’s House to continue its care for seriously ill children and their families across Dorset.”

45 giant mermaid tails and 43 smaller ‘Tiny Tails’ can be found in popular locations across the BCP region until 1 June, creating a family-friendly art trail which is perfect for Easter holiday exploring.

The Great Tail Trail app can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play for £1.99 with all proceeds to Julia’s House. Use the app to locate and collect all 88 mermaid tails, collect rewards from sculpture sponsors, vote for your favourite designs, track your steps and share your photos from the trail. You can also pick up a paper map and trail-themed goodies including tote bags, cards and paint your own tail kits from Julia’s House charity shops.