OCTOPUS patrons have announced their ink-credible art project will be ready for next summer.

More than 100 eye-catching painted octopus sculptures were set to be seen through parks and open spaces around Tendring, Colchester and wider Essex this summer.

The sculptures, designed by schools and businesses, were planned to be on display for ten weeks as part of a trail for families to enjoy.

The Octopus Ahoy! trail, as it was named by organisers, was then set to culminate in an auction of the sculptures to raise funds for Essex-based charities.

The project was meant to take place this year to coincide with Harwich’s Mayflower anniversary celebrations, as 2020 marks the year the ship, captained by former Harwich resident Christopher Jones, sailed the Pilgrim Fathers to America.

However, due to the coronavirus pandemic the project has been held back until next summer.

Katie Skingle, director of KAT Marketing, which has developed Octopus Ahoy alongside Tendring Council and Milsoms Hotels, said: “Octopus Ahoy! was, of course, postponed this summer due to the Covid-19 pandemic but never fear, it is all lined up ready for the summer of 2021 instead.

“We’re looking at a revised timetable right now and planning what the new programme will look like with Tendring Council.

“We’ll be announcing the revised schedules shortly.

“It looks highly likely the education element of the project will relaunch to schools in September and October but do keep an eye out on the website octopusahoy.co.uk and follow all the Octopus Ahoy social channels for more updates.”

She said more details about the project will be announced in the coming weeks regarding the involvement of schools.

Before lockdown, project organisers handpicked their favourite artwork for the summer Octopus Ahoy! trail.

More than 100 artists showcased their designs at an event, which took place at the Seaquarium on Clacton Pier.