If you go down to the park today... expect a surprise

Park visitors are being charmed by the appearance of small sculpted figures, as Lewis Clarke found out

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It started with a small knife, a sliver of wood, and a dash of curiosity.

Now, in the quiet corners of Eastville Park, tiny hand-carved animals and whimsical figures keep appearing - tucked into trees, perched on benches, or simply resting on logs - delighting unsuspecting passers-by. Their maker? A mystery. But to those in the know, he goes by one name only: Whittling Jimmy.

"I would prefer to stay anonymous," Jimmy said, explaining his choice to work under a pseudonym. "Honestly, I feel it adds more intrigue to the idea of leaving the whittles, and I like the idea that people think it could be anyone leaving them behind."

What began as a personal creative outlet has grown into a quiet local legend, earning whispers of admiration and heartfelt thank-yous from across the community.

But behind each tiny sculpture lies a story of craftsmanship, care, and an ever-growing desire to brighten someone's day - one whittle at a time.

Jimmy first picked up whittling at the start of the year. Like many who stumbled into a new skill during periods of reflection or quietude, he started small. Early pieces were gifts for friends and family - a miniature version of his boss's dog among them. The reaction? Pure joy.