SCHOOLS are off for the summer, but the creative talents of pupils from two local Fermanagh primary schools are delighting art-loving residents and tourists visiting Belfast, as part of the city’s feelgood event of the summer.

Elmer’s Big Belfast Trail – which includes the work of children from Tattygar Primary School in Lisbellaw, and Jones Memorial Primary School in Enniskillen – has seen a herd of 'elephant-asti'” sculptures make a colourful splash by popping up in iconic locations, landmarks and open spaces throughout Belfast city centre.

The free, family-friendly art trail is currently running until August 31, and features more than 70 uniquely decorated sculptures designed by artists, local schools and community groups; all called 'Elmer', but all given their own individual design.

Jones Memorial PS's contribution is entitled ‘Lord Elmer of Erne’, and can be seen in Castle Court Shopping Centre.

Jones Memorial Primary Schools design Lord Elmer of Erne.

Jones Memorial Primary School's design 'Lord Elmer of Erne'.

Teacher Roberta Bailie said: “Our sculpture is and was inspired by our pupils, school and community – stitched together with love! Our sculpture was a real team effort.

“Every pupil in the school prepared their own idea of how Elmer should look, and we agreed on the designs that best reflected our ethos of caring, sharing and preparing.

"There is a nod to the island town of Enniskillen and subtle hints of rural life in Fermanagh. Look out for the fingerprints on the work – we are all there.”

Tattygar’s sculpture, entitled 'Together we are Stronger’, is on display at Donegal Arcade.

Tattygar Primary Schools Design Together We Are Stronger.

Tattygar Primary School's Design 'Together We Are Stronger'.

Aisling Swindle from the school said: “Our Elmer was inspired by coming together as a school community. In our school assembly and in class, we talked about what we believed was special about Tattygar Primary School.

“The common theme that our children discussed was the idea that no matter what we are doing or what we ask for, everyone collectively has a huge part to play in what we achieve, and we always join together as a team to keep our school family at the centre of our community.”

Elmer’s Big Belfast Trail is organised by the Northern Ireland Hospice in partnership with Wild in Art and Andersen Press.

The trail is in aid of NI Hospice, and is part of its celebrations to mark 21 Years of Care at Children’s Hospice, Horizon House.

So if you are wondering what to do with the children during the summer holidays, why not head to Belfast to see your local schools’ ‘wee Elmer’ on the trail?

You can also join in with the free events at Elmer HQ in Castle Court, where children can enjoy artist workshops, storytelling and face painting.

Many of the sculptures pay tribute to the history and spirit of Belfast city, from the linen industry to C.S. Lewis, the R.M.S. Titanic, and even Game of Thrones, with others touching on themes such as the natural beauty of Northern Ireland, environmentalism, the NHS, Pride, fairy tales, folklore, graffiti, diversity and inclusivity, and more.

Northern Ireland Hospice's Chief Executive, Heather Weir, said: “Elmer’s Big Belfast Trail is the biggest event that the NI Hospice has ever undertaken.

"It’s huge for the people of Belfast and for those outside the city too – it’s a ‘must do’ for residents and visitors alike and I am sure it will delight all who see it.

“As well bringing communities and businesses together, the trail will help fund the specialist care which our team provides for local babies, children and young people living with life-limiting and life-threatening illnesses.

"Elmer’s stories all promote positivity, compassion, inclusivity and care – all values which align closely with NI Hospice. We’re so pleased that Elmer is helping us raise awareness of our important work in the local community.”

It is estimated that around one million people will take part in Elmer’s Big Belfast Trail, which will deliver a boost of £10m to the local economy this summer.

To find out more about Elmer’s Big Belfast Trail, see elmerbelfast.co.uk, or download the ElmerBelfast app for free from the Apple or Android app stores.