The mystery behind why wooden board appeared in the middle of a busy Swindon street has been revealed.

The boards were apparently randomly placed at the head of Wood Street on Friday morning.

It wasn't long until they were the subject of much discussion in the Old Town Community Facebook group. 

Many guesses as to why they were there included exploring the secret tunnels under Old Town, an outdoor dance mat, or even, perhaps less seriously, a portal to another world.

But it was later revealed by vice-chair of the Old Town Business Association Kris Talikowski that the boards are the location of the Old Town ’Swindog’ sculpture that will form part of the Big Dog Art Trail this summer.

“Six amazing businesses in Old Town clubbed together to co-sponsor a Swindog to go in this great location," said Kris. 

"I have to say a huge thank you to Willoby’s Furniture Company, Gustoso Cafe, Charles Harding Estate Agents, Los Gatos, Dominos and Deacons Jewellery for working together to make this happen. Without them, we wouldn’t have had a central Swindog in Old Town.” 

The Big Dog Arts Trail will run from July 15 to September 3.

Thirty bespoke painted balloon dog sculptures, sponsored by local businesses, will be spread across the town and eventually auctioned off with proceeds going towards Julia’s House, the local children’s hospice charity.

To find out more visit https://www.bigdogarttrail.co.uk/.