Moor Otters arts trail postponed
Dartmoor National Park Authority is postponing Moor Otters 2020.
The public arts trail and associated events, which aims to raise £60,000 for conservation projects in the National Park, was to be launched on May 27 - World Otter Day.
Due to the coronavirus outbreak, and the imperative need to protect the health and wellbeing of communities, ‘otter spotters’ and businesses, a decision has been made to reschedule the trail.
A new date will be announced in due course. The relaunch will be timed to support local business recovery and provide a much needed boost to tourism.
Dartmoor National Park Authority’s Chair Pamela Woods said while it was disappointing it was important to heed all government advice, act now, and protect each other.
She said: “Moor Otters is a great way to celebrate the outdoors together with artists, businesses, our partners and communities so it is a real shame that we have had to postpone.
“However, it’s vitally important we all listen to the latest government advice to protect the health of one another, and we are taking the right precautions. This means staying at home and helping to save lives, and celebrating Moor Otters another time.
“Our priority now will be to look closely at how we can support and bring communities together at the right time and when we are all able to return to normal.
“As well as raising money for vital conservation work, we see Moor Otters as being a way to boost for businesses, tourism and hospitality once we have got through these unprecedented times. Hopefully we can ensure Moor Otters is a really useful tool in helping to support small businesses across the moor.
“We don’t have a specific date in mind as yet and will monitor the ongoing situation in line with Government guidelines and current restrictions.
“When the time comes, we hope people will continue to show their kindness and generosity by supporting the project as it will needed more than ever, both to support our local businesses, the National Park and crucially help everyone feel good, physically and mentally, once more.
“Our thanks and gratitude to everyone involved so far. We have not taken this decision lightly and have been touched with the response.
“In the meantime we wish everyone a safe, healthy few months and look forward to welcoming you all back to Dartmoor when we are through this pandemic.”
The Authority is making sure that hosting fees are refunded to businesses that require them to ensure they are not further financially disadvantaged during these difficult times.
Moor Otters will continue to be showcased via Dartmoor’s website and social media channels so people can admire the artists’ creativity and skill until the time comes when people can enjoy them on the trail.
