A popular sculpture trail which attracts thousands annually is returning to the Waveney Valley this summer.

Beccles & Bungay Journal: The work of Jacqui Jones will be appearing at Waveney Valley Sculpture 2018. Photo: Jacqui Jones.The work of Jacqui Jones will be appearing at Waveney Valley Sculpture 2018. Photo: Jacqui Jones. (Image: Archant)

More than 30 artists have contributed work to the fifth Waveney Valley Sculpture Trail which traverses three acres of hidden paths, romantic groves and secretive corners.

The event, which runs from August 17 to September 16, is organised by Waveney and Blyth Arts and will be hosted at the Raveningham Centre in Beccles Road.

Curator Sarah Cannell has encouraged the artists involved to create work in response to the breathtaking venue.

She said: “This is our second year at the magical Raveningham site. I am really excited to see how artists will respond to the space with the new meadow and paths now well established.

“We will be increasing the gallery space in the house and whilst the majority of artists taking part are based in East Anglia we have new work coming from makers in London, Dorset and Yorkshire for the first time.”

Many established artists such as Simon Griffths, Rob Harries, Gordon Senior, Jim Racine, Patrick Elder and Mike Challis will be joined by up and coming artists.

A programme of workshops, guided walks and events will accompany the event, including a curator’s guided tour which will provide a unique insight into how the trail was created.

Nicky Stainton from Waveney and Blyth Arts said: “Following the very positive response from visitors last year we are very excited to be back in this lovely setting.

“The site, with its areas of meadow, lawn, shrubbery and woodland, provides an ideal setting for the wide variety of artworks on display.”

A pop-up shop will also be selling a selection of the artists’ work.

Artist Brian Korteling said: “It’s great to be part of the trail. It is always good to meet the other artists and see such a diverse and interesting collection of work.

“The site is perfect and has loads of interesting areas for visitors to explore and discover the artists’ work.”

Last year more than 3,000 people visited the trail.

And it is open every day from 10am till 5pm with tickets costing £5 for adults and under-18s going free.

For more information about events and access visit www.waveneyandblytharts.com