Spring bollards bring smiles and support for local charity

A quiet street in Torquay has been brought to life this spring with a colourful, whimsical display along Middle Warberry Road.

Local artist Becky Bettesworth and friend Rachel Harris transformed ordinary street bollards into a cheerful springtime installation, spreading joy and creativity throughout the community.

The display, inspired by the playful aesthetic of Jellycat toys, features soft pastel designs wrapped around the bollards, catching the eye of passersby and brightening the street with a touch of imagination. Children from the local area helped place the decorations, turning the project into a shared community moment.

Alongside lifting spirits, the project also supported a local cause. The display raised funds for PATH, a charity that supports local people who need a helping hand when life becomes a struggle. PATH runs a busy food bank, welcoming new families and individuals every week, and relies on community fundraisers to maintain vital services.

Kath Friedrich, a trustee at the charity said: “We were thrilled when Becky chose PATH Torbay to fundraise for. Her bollards were so beautiful and not only raised some smiles but raised money for our charity as well. Community fundraisers like Becky’s are so important, not just to raise vital funds but also to raise awareness and encourage local support.”

Residents and visitors are encouraged to take a stroll along Middle Warberry Road, enjoy the installation, take photos and scan the QR code to donate to PATH. The project celebrates “hope, love and community,” demonstrating how a little creativity can bring people together.

With spring in full bloom, the colourful bollards serve as a reminder of the impact of small acts of kindness, brightening both the street and the lives of those in the community.