From 15th July to 14th September 2026, Newcastle and North Tyneside will play host to to 43 large and 53 little Peter Rabbit™ sculptures, located in parks, streets and public buildings.

The trail is organised by and raising funds for St Oswald’s Hospice and the charity hope that the North East community will get on board in making it a huge success, just like its predecessors Great North Snowdogs, Elmer’s Great North Parade and Shaun the Sheep on the Tyne.

Just like at St Oswald’s Hospice, volunteers will be a vital part of the trail team. They will be key in leading the experience and warmly welcoming the thousands of people expected to visit Shaun the Sheep on the Tyne over the summer holidays. In return, volunteers will gain first-hand experience of the project. And of course, they will have the chance to enjoy behind-the-scenes access to one of the biggest events in the region this summer!

Sound good? We are on the lookout for sociable, enthusiastic volunteers to be a part of our fluffle – this is a unique opportunity to support your local hospice, showcase your home town and meet lots of interesting people!

As a trail volunteer, you will be out and about at trail events in Newcastle and North Tyneside, ready to welcome, inform and assist any visitors you may meet. We are also looking for volunteers to support our Trail HQ at the space by St Oswald’s Hospice in Ouseburn, Newcastle where you will help in the efficient daily running of this multi-purpose hub of all things Tales on the Tyne, by selling merchandise, assisting trail participants and representing St Oswald’s Hospice to our local community.

Volunteering roles available:

Trail HQ Volunteer

Based at the space by St Oswald’s Hospice in Ouseburn, Newcastle.

Welcome visitors, share trail information, help families use the app, give directions, and support merchandise sales. Perfect for people who love being at the heart of the action

You must be aged 18 or over to volunteer for this role. No prior experience is necessary, you just need to enjoy meeting people, have a friendly and helpful attitude, and lots of enthusiasm!

Download role description Apply now

Trail Community Events Volunteer

Attend events across Newcastle and North Tyneside, engage with the public, and help spread excitement and support fundraising activities.

You must be aged 18 or over to volunteer for this role. No prior experience is necessary, you just need to enjoy meeting people, have a friendly and helpful attitude, and lots of enthusiasm!

Download role description Apply now

Trail Arts & Crafts Volunteer

Prefer a creative, behind‑the‑scenes role?

You will work from your own home, making a range of handcrafted items which we can sell to raise funds for St Oswald’s Hospice.

We are looking for a range of skills such as knitting, sewing, crocheting, with items themed around the English countryside.

Download role description Find out more

Got a question? Get in touch!

If you have any questions about volunteering, please contact: volunteer@stoswaldsuk.org – we’d love to welcome you into our team this summer!

Trail Sponsors School, Youth & Community Groups Artists St Oswald's Hospice