Exmouth Launches the World's First Woolly Hanging Basket Trail
Exmouth celebrated the official launch of the 2026 Mail Trail on Wednesday 24 June 2026, unveiling what organisers are proudly calling the world's first hanging basket trail made entirely from knitting and crochet.
The Mail Trail this year features 33 knitted and crocheted hanging baskets displayed throughout the town, alongside 29 handcrafted woolly postbox toppers and a spectacular fully yarn-bombed bicycle overflowing with knitted fruit, cakes and summer treats.
Together, the 63 displays have transformed Exmouth into a colourful outdoor gallery while raising vital funds for Hospiscare.
Since the Mail Trail began in 2020, the volunteer-led project has raised more than £30,000 for Hospiscare, helping local people living with terminal illness and supporting their families. This year's event has already raised more than £7,000 from local businesses (including Gift Aid) before the summer season is fully underway.
The official launch was attended by Deputy Mayor Councillor Dianne Conduit,and Hospiscare Trustee Tim Harlow, who joined volunteer makers, sponsors and supporters to celebrate another year of community creativity and fundraising.
Clare Suttie, one of the Mail Trail organisers, said: "What started as a handful of postbox toppers has grown into something that brings together businesses, volunteers, residents and visitors in support of Hospiscare.
"This year we've taken things even further with what we believe is the world's first hanging basket trail made entirely from knitting and crochet.
"Combined with our postbox toppers and the incredible woolly bicycle, Exmouth has become a wonderful showcase for the talent, generosity and imagination of our volunteer makers. Every display has been created by volunteers and sponsored by local businesses, demonstrating what can happen when a community comes together for a good cause."
Hospiscare Trustee Tim Harlow commented: The Trail is a fantastic example of the wonderful support we get at Hospiscare from our communities. And because of incredible work like this, day in and day out, we can keep providing the service we do - so thank you!"
The hanging basket trail was inspired by local volunteer and yarnbomber extraordinaire, Pam Essex, whose idea has added a completely new dimension to the project. Hundreds of hours of knitting and crochet have gone into creating the displays, which are expected to attract residents and visitors throughout the summer.
The Exmouth Mail Trail runs until the end of September. Maps, donation details and further information can be found at www.mailtrail.org.uk.
Many photos are available on request, and can be freely downloaded and shared from our social media pages (Facebook and Instagram).
