Plans are afoot to bring a version of the successful Flock to Skipton public art project to North Craven.

Skipton Town Council’s scheme, which saw 22 sheep sculptures positioned at points around the town, proved hugely popular in 2010. The sheep were individually designed and decorated following a competition to find the best ideas.

Now Lesley Woods, from Clitheroe, wants to bring 100 life-size painted sheep to the Forest of Bowland and surrounding communities, including Settle, Giggleswick and Bentham.

She said: “Skipton organised such an event last year and said that numbers visiting the town increased by half a million, so why can't the Forest of Bowland and surrounding towns?

“With the support of a small grant from the Forest of Bowland Sustainable Development Fund, I am looking into the support and expertise required to make such an event – to be called Sheep Parade – a success and provide funds for local charities.

“I would like to hear from businesses and organisations, both small and large, as well as individuals who would like to support it. The sheep would all require a sponsor or a group of sponsors and an artist to design and paint them. The artist need not be an individual, it could be a community such as a school.”

As with the Skipton scheme, at the end of the life of the sheep, they would be auctioned off.

Lesley added: “If the event is to go ahead, I will also be looking for sponsors and venues for the launch events and the very important auction. I will also need volunteer ‘shepherds’ – especially in the villages – to keep the sheep safe during their time outside.”

If you would like to be involved, e-mail lesleywoods 19@hotmail.com or ring the Forest of Bowland AONB on 01200 448000 and leave your contact details.