York Central Gets its Snook on!

The York Central Partnership team is excited to be getting behind this year’s hotly-anticipated ‘Snook Trail’ with the sponsorship of its very own ‘Snook’.

Taking place throughout March and April, the Snook Trail 2024 invites members of the public to embark on a captivating journey through York’s historic cobbled streets and hidden gardens while seeking out 20+ book-loving ‘Snooks’ scattered throughout the city.

The free trail has been organised by Make it York, alongside charity partner St Leonard’s Hospice, and York Central is one of several other local businesses who have stepped in to sponsor each of the 6ft sculptures. Sian Ellis, a Yorkshire-based illustrator and mural artist, has designed the Snook character, with each one uniquely decorated by individual artists.

York Central’s Snook, affectionally known as ‘Webbo’, has been brought to life by talented UK artist Gemma Wood and comes fully donned in team colours, even sporting her own hi-vis jacket. Webbo the Snook will be located in The Principal Hotel and people can come along as part of the trail, take a selfie and find a link to get more information about the York Central Project.

Once the Trail concludes, Snook enthusiasts will have the opportunity to bid for their favourite at a special auction in May, with all proceeds raised generating vital funds for St Leonard’s Hospice.

Emma Brown, Senior Manager – Planning and Enabling, at Homes England commented on behalf of the York Central Partnership: “We’re really proud to be joining forces with other local businesses to support this unique and very worthy initiative that celebrates York and raises funds for a great charity. We are committed to engaging the local community in everything we do and this is a great way to introduce York Central to new audiences. We hope that the campaign will encourage more members of the community to uncover some of York’s historic gems in a fun and innovative way, and we look forward to seeing Webbo taking her place amongst other book-loving buddies!”

Sarah Loftus, Managing Director of Make It York, said, “It’s amazing to be able to work with so many incredible businesses and organisations who help make York a great city for residents and visitors alike, and especially being able to partner with St Leonard’s Hospice who make such a difference to people during such difficult times.

“The Trail will provide opportunities for residents and visitors to discover more of our wonderful city and interact with businesses, charities, and attractions. We can’t wait for the Trail to begin in February, and we’re delighted that local businesses are just as excited as we are for their launch.”

As part of the launch activity, the York Central headed to the capital last month, where four travelling Snooks kick-started the campaign from London’s Kings Cross Station.

James Wainwright, Head of Fundraising at St Leonard’s Hospice, says: “The Snooks Trail is a new and exciting way for St Leonard’s to remind people why we’re here and of the difference we make for people in York and the surrounding area. This will be a really high-profile event for York, with the exciting prospect of the sculptures being auctioned off in May to help even more patients and their families in future.”

Watch this space for more details about the Snooks Trail and other ways to get involved!