TWO of Swindon's biggest names have thrown their support behind a new one-of-a-kind art trail.
Leisure centre provider Better (GLL) and the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Swindon have signed up to be part of The Big Dog Art Trail in Swindon in 2023.
They will each sponsor one of the 30 super-sized Swindogs which will create the UK’s first-ever balloon dog art trail, which is raising money for children’s hospice charity Julia’s House.
The new additions join Imagine Cruising, NSBRC, Intel, Nationwide, Imagine Cruising, the Swindon Advertiser, the Swindon Wildcats, Jazzbones, and the inSwindon town centre BID as sponsors.
Better run five leisure and fitness centres in Swindon. Partnership manager Barnaby Rich said, “We’re delighted to be a sponsor and supporter of The Big Dog Art Trail, raising vital funds for Julia’s House.
"Better’s values are rooted in charitable activity, supporting communities in being more active and bringing families together for their leisure time.
"We hope this fantastic trail will have a positive impact on Swindon and the wider community.”
McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Swindon has more than 100 shops, several restaurants and a children's play area inside heritage buildings of the Great Western Railway works. Next summer, there might be a Swindog or two to spot there.
Centre manager Tina Cumpstey said, “We are proud to be part of The Big Dog Art Trail and to be able to support Julia’s House with an exciting and engaging trail for all the family to enjoy.”
The Big Dog Art Trail will run from July 15 to September 3 2023, and end with a farewell weekend where all the Swindog sculptures will be brought together under one roof.
The giant one-of-a-kind creations will then head off to their forever homes after being adopted at a special auction event.
The event is being brought to Swindon by Julia’s House and global public art producer Wild in Art.
Project manager Chris Hyde said: “Sponsoring a Swindog, and joining The Big Dog Art Trail pack will bring your company some paw-some benefits.
"You will be part of an event which brings thousands of visitors to your local community in Swindon.
"The trail will improve brand awareness for your business or organisation in a unique and memorable way that will get everyone talking.
"It will help you build a feel-good factor among your employees, customers and stakeholders. You will be raising funds for Julia’s House children’s hospice charity, helping them to continue their amazing work in your local community.”
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