This winter, 121 National Trust gardens and parklands across England, Wales and Northern Ireland will be inviting families to step into the world of Percy the Park Keeper, thanks to a new agreement signed by the brand’s licensing agent The Point.1888.

In partnership with the best-selling author and illustrator Nick Butterworth, the Percy the Park Keeper Winter Wander at National Trust sites will introduce children and their families to the busy park keeper and his animal friends.

“I am absolutely delighted that Percy and his animal friends are partnering with the National Trust this winter,” says Butterworth. “The houses and gardens of the National Trust are inspirational places and good for the soul. As parents and grandparents, we have found ourselves lost in a world of imagination in the wonderful grounds. So much so that sometimes we have actually been lost, but there aren’t many better places to be. The past 18 months have been very difficult for so many people and also the National Trust. To be part of something that supports the National Trust, that gets people outdoors and spreads some happiness this winter is terrific.”

Running from Dec. 4 to Jan. 30, the self-led trail will invite families to join Percy’s team as he races to get the park and its animals ready for winter. After reading Percy’s handwritten note, families will help find Percy’s equipment and enjoy activities and games as they complete the trail. There will also be a prize to collect and a photo opportunity with Percy and his friends at the end.

“Nick’s books, with their ethos of caring for each other and the world around us, were of great support to so many people during lockdown and now that restrictions have eased and children and families can go out once more to explore, we’re delighted that Percy the Park Keeper will be right alongside them,” says Olivia Wiggett, associate commercial manager, The Point.1888. “This deal is incredibly important to the program and there are many more exciting plans to come.”

“We are thrilled to be bringing the magic of Percy’s world to National Trust places this winter,” says Lucy Footer, creative programming manager, National Trust. “The Percy the Park Keeper Winter Wander will take place across 121 of our properties including parklands like Percy’s, gardens, landscapes and coastal sites in our care, bringing delight to families across regions and countries. Since we announced the trail, it has become clear how well-loved Percy is, particularly amongst our garden and ranger teams and of course our visitors. The Percy stories have even inspired one or two of our staff to become National Trust rangers themselves! The world of Percy is gentle and kind and through the stories we’re invited to help Percy solve problems, care for nature, notice what’s around and of course have fun, helped by his animal friends. It’s in this spirit that we will engage families and visitors of all ages through the Winter Wander experience, and we cannot wait to welcome them.”

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