Housing developer Persimmon is the latest big name to back a major Swindon sculpture trail.
The property builders, who are working on sites including Stanton Chase and Badbury Park, will sponsor one of 30 balloon dog sculptures called Swindogs which will be set up around the town this summer.
The UK’s first-ever balloon dog art trail will raise essential funds for children’s hospice charity Julia’s House.
Sales director for Persimmon Wessex, Pauline Fletcher, said: “We are delighted to be able to show our support to Julia’s House children’s hospice through our sponsorship of The Big Dog Art Trail.
“Persimmon has a significant presence across Wiltshire – where Julia’s House does so much good for local families – and we’re proud to be able to play our part in raising awareness of the fantastic work undertaken by the charity.
“As a local housebuilder, we want to leave a positive lasting legacy within the communities where we build locally, and we can think of no better cause than supporting Julia’s House through our Community Champions initiative.
“We look forward to meeting with the well-known local artist who will be uniquely decorating the Persimmon sculpture, and to seeing the community in Swindon enjoying this colourful trail over the summer months as we all get behind Julia’s House children’s hospice.”
The Big Dog Art Trail is being brought to Swindon by Julia’s House and global public art producer Wild in Art.
South Swindon Parish Council looks after a number of parks in Swindon where sculptures will be hosted.
Coun Neil Hopkins said: “I am delighted to have been invited to join this Swindog launch event at what is to be South Swindon Parish Council’s new Badbury Park Community Hub and Children’s library, which was built by Persimmon.
“We wish Julia’s House every success in raising substantial funds through this exciting event.”
The Big Dog Art Trail will run from July 15 to September 3 and end with a farewell weekend where all the sculptures will be brought under one roof and auctioned off.
Project manager Chris Hyde added: “It is brilliant to have Persimmon supporting the trail by sponsoring one of our Swindogs.
“They play a key role in the Swindon community and we are proud to be one of their Community Champions.
“We’d also like to thank South Swindon Parish Council for their fantastic support of the event. With their help, it is guaranteed to be something all Swindon residents can be proud of.”
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