THE winners of a competition to showcase designs on statues forming part of a Wirral tourist attraction have been revealed.

Schools, youth groups and artists were invited to submitted their ideas for decorating one of the five mermaid statues that will be part of the New Brighton Mermaid Trail, which will be unveiled in May.

The sixth statue will be decorated by Barry Canning-Eaton, a sculptor from Wallasey who won the commission to design and create the mermaids.

The others will be decorated by:

  • The Mosslands School, Wallasey
  • Wirral Hospitals' School, Claughton
  • St George's Primary School, Wallasey
  • St Mary's Catholic College, Wallasey
  • Ebb & Flow, a community interest company which works with communities, including New Brighton

Taking its inspiration from the legend of the Black Rock Mermaid who was said to have appeared to a local sailor in New Brighton in the 18th century.

The Trail will be placed at strategic locations in New Brighton, inspired by and celebrating the resort’s history, heritage, and its links with the mythical 'Black Rock Mermaid', who was said to have appeared to a local sailor in New Brighton in the 18th century.

The five designs will each be credited with a plaque on their statue and the designers and sculptor will be guests of honour when the trail is officially launched.

Cllr Tony Jones, Wirral Council’s Pledge Champion for building a vibrant tourism economy and Chair of New Brighton Coastal Community Team, said: "Given the amount of interest, it will be difficult keeping these fantastic designs a secret before the grand unveiling in May, but we want to launch the Mermaid Trail with a splash - excuse the pun!

"The winning designs are distinctive and stunning, and people will love to see them as they walk around the town.

"Everyone will have their favourite.

"I would like to thank everyone who took part, not just the winners, but those who submitted their designs.

"A lot of thought and imagination has gone in, and we appreciate everyone's efforts."