TODAY’S the day Dartmoor National Park launches its Moor Otters Arts Trail 2021. 

Moor Otters is a sculpture trail aimed at helping people discover and learn more about Dartmoor, raise funds to keep it special now and in the future, and support local businesses.

There are 81 stunning sculptures of otters with cubs - all designed and decorated by artists, local talent and organisations – spread out across Dartmoor and surrounding areas ready for ‘otter spotters’ of all ages to find. 

Five trails have been created for people to follow including a special Mayflower Trail in Plymouth which commemorates the Mayflower’s sailing from Plymouth to America in 1620.  

People can also find sculptures in Newton Abbot, Totnes and Topsham near Exeter. There’s also a special ’roaming’ otter who’ll be out and about in different places – so keep those eyes peeled!

The trail map is on the website or printed maps can be picked up in National Park Visitor Centres at Haytor, Postbridge and Princetown. 

Dartmoor National Park Authority is committed to bringing people an arts trail that can be explored in a safe and sustainable way. 

Authority Chair Pamela Woods said: ‘The day has finally arrived and we are really looking forward to seeing ‘otter spotters’ out and about enjoying everything this wonderful National Park has to offer.

‘We’re thrilled that so many local businesses and organisations committed to staying involved despite the challenges of the last year.

‘We hope people enjoy seeing these incredible sculptures which are beautifully decorated by a range of creative individuals. Each one has a unique tale to tell, much like Dartmoor has its own unique story.

‘We are encouraging people to follow the trails, support local businesses and raise funds for Dartmoor’s ongoing conservation. But, most importantly, to have lots of fun discovering Dartmoor’s special environment. We can’t wait to hear about people’s experiences.’

The Moor Otters Arts Trail is designed so people can safely explore this wonderful landscape by foot, bike, car or public transport. There are activities, competitions and prizes to be won throughout the summer so what better way to get outside, enjoy Dartmoor and explore its iconic places?

The trail aims to raise £60,000 to support conservation work to protect and enhance Dartmoor’s special habitats and wildlife, including otters which make the National Park their home. 

People will have the opportunity to own a sculpture when the Moor Otters Arts Trail concludes in October. They can bid for their favourite in an online auction - details are on the website. Twenty-five sculptures have been selected as ‘golden otters’ and will be auctioned at an event hosted by Bearnes Hampton & Littlewood on October 2.

The Moor Otters Arts Trail is sponsored by South West Water and supported by Valued Partners including the Jolly Roger Lifesize Models, BRS Images, Bovey Castle, Bearnes Hampton and Littlewood Auctioneers, Visit Dartmoor, Absolute PR and Marketing, the Western Morning News and Mail Boxes Etc.

You can join the Moor Otters Arts Trail Facebook group or follow on Twitter or lots more updates and details, including where the roaming otter will be.