Willmott Dixon’s Dartford team doing the ellenor Twilight Walk, part of a package of support for the charity.

Dartford-based Willmott Dixon is sponsoring a distinctive bear sculpture as part of the "Dartford We're Going on a Bear Hunt" art trail, supporting ellenor, the local hospice charity that provides vital care across North Kent and Bexley.

The innovative public art project, led by ellenor in partnership with Dartford Borough Council and Wild in Art, will transform Dartford and Bluewater Shopping Centre from July to September 2026. Inspired by Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury's beloved children's book, the trail will feature 30 Big Bears and 30 Bear Cubs, each uniquely decorated by local artists, schools, and community groups.

Wild in Art is the internationally acclaimed creator of public sculpture trails seen in cities worldwide, and the Dartford trail aims to raise vital funds and greater understanding of the comprehensive care ellenor provides not just in its hospice, but in homes, hospitals, and communities across the region.

Willmott Dixon's involvement reflects the company's deep roots in the Dartford community. With an office in the town and many colleagues living across North Kent and Bexley, the construction firm has a longstanding commitment to supporting local initiatives and has delivered several projects that benefit the community.

Richard Poulter, Managing Director for Willmott Dixon in the South:

"Raising funds and awareness for ellenor is incredibly important to us. By supporting this initiative, we can help ensure that this vital charity will be there for our community when it is needed most. The art trail also gives us a wonderful opportunity to promote wellbeing and outdoor activity whilst leaving an impactful legacy in Dartford that complements the buildings we have delivered and helps strengthen the town's identity.

“This kind of community engagement is at the heart of what we do – it's about more than construction; it's about transforming lives and strengthening communities."

Sue Piper, ellenor’s Director of Income Generation, added:

“It’s wonderful to have Willmott Dixon as part of We’re Going on a Bear Hunt. As a Dartford-based company deeply involved in the local community, their support is helping us bring this creative trail to life while funding ellenor’s specialist hospice care for adults and children across North Kent and Bexley. Together, we’re creating something that will inspire joy, connection, and pride across our community.”

Willmott Dixon's support extends well beyond sponsoring a bear sculpture. Throughout the year, the company's Kent-based colleagues are dedicating their time to support ellenor through various initiatives, including participation in the recent ellenor Twilight Walk in Gravesend, demonstrating their ongoing commitment to the charity's mission.

The sponsorship also continues Willmott Dixon's strong track record of supporting hospice charities across the communities where it works, recognising the invaluable end-of-life and palliative care these organisations provide to local families.

The "Dartford We're Going on a Bear Hunt" art trail promises to bring families together, encourage exploration of the local area, and raise crucial funds for ellenor's life-changing hospice care services. Following the eight-week trail period, all sculptures will be auctioned in October 2026, with proceeds supporting ellenor's vital work.