More than 6,000 people are estimated to have explored the Staffy Trail since its launch, which organisers believe has generated between £87,000 and £180,000 for the local economy.

The public art and heritage trail has attracted almost 3,000 app users, with thousands estimated to have taken part using printed maps and visiting the sculptures independently.

Delivered by the Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Local Visitor Economy Partnership (LVEP) alongside Staffordshire County Council and Making Trails, the trail features eleven giant Staffy sculptures across Stoke-on-Trent, Stafford, Tamworth, Uttoxeter and Lichfield.

Based on current participation figures and estimated visitor spending, organisers believe the trail has already generated between £87,000 and £180,000 for local businesses through spending on food, drink, shopping, attractions and transport.

Robin Hall, Staffordshire County Council's Cabinet Member for Economy and Skills, said: "The response to the Staffy Trail has been fantastic. Thousands of people are already out exploring Staffordshire, discovering new places and supporting local businesses along the way.

"One of the key aims of the trail was to encourage people to spend time in our towns and city centres, and these early figures show it's already having a positive impact.

"Staffordshire is the nation's playground and it's great to see so many residents and visitors getting out and experiencing everything the county has to offer."

To keep the momentum going, the trail will host its latest themed week, 'Selfie with Staffy', from Saturday 6 June to Friday 12 June.

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Visitors are being encouraged to take a photo with their favourite Staffy sculpture and share it on social media using the hashtag #FollowStaffy.

The Staffy Trail is free to take part in and runs until 10 July. The official trail app can be downloaded from the Visit Staffordshire website here.