Hull prepares for its new animal trail of giant rat sculptures, honoring musician Mick Ronson.
The rat trail is called “A Mischief of Rats.” It will open to everyone on May 3rd. Organizers chose rats to honor Mick Ronson, who was from Hull and played in a band named The Rats. He later joined David Bowie’s band.
Artists submitted 180 rat designs, and organizers picked 45 designs for the trail. Local businesses are sponsoring each rat statue. They are paying for the rat’s creation.
The rat statues will be auctioned after the event ends in August. All money raised will aid the Daisy Appeal. This charity supports cancer, heart disease, and dementia research. Mick Ronson passed away from cancer.
Artists used five themes when designing the rats. These themes included music, health, literature, ships, and creative makeovers.
Clare Huby said about thirty rats will be in Hull. The other rats will be placed around East Yorkshire.
The first rat, “Daisy Rat,” was revealed at an event. Artist Leo Soph Welton designed Daisy Rat. Mick Ronson’s sister and a bandmate unveiled it. Daisy Rat is yellow and displays the Daisy Appeal logo.
Hull City Council supported the rat trail. Council Leader Mike Ross attended Daisy’s unveiling. He thinks the rats will bring joy to the city and hopes they attract visitors.
Manuel Mestre Valdés, a local businessman, sponsored a rat. He is a big Mick Ronson fan and wants to highlight the role of pharmacies.
Each rat will have a QR code. People can use it to track all 45 rats on an app.
Two rats are still available for sponsorship. Businesses can contact organizers if they want to participate.