TWO of Swindon's biggest businesses have joined a major art trail which will see sculptures set up around the town.
Nationwide Building Society and Intel are each sponsoring a Swindog which will create the UK’s first-ever balloon dog art trail and raise vital funds for children’s hospice charity Julia’s House.
Nationwide Building Society’s head office has been based in Swindon for many years and they have set themselves the task of creating Oakfield, a new neighbourhood of homes in their hometown. Next summer, Nationwide’s Swindog will take pride of place at this innovative housing development.
Social investment marketing consultant Jack Watling said, “We’re really excited to be sponsoring The Big Dog Art Trail.
"Julia’s House does such wonderful work in our community and it’s great to have the opportunity to support them. We’re looking forward to proudly displaying our dog at Oakfield, our development of 239 new eco-friendly homes on Marlowe Avenue in Swindon.”
Swindon has been the home of Intel’s UK headquarters for more than 40 years and they don’t want to just be in the community, they want to be part of it.
Community engagement manager Darren Howell said, “Intel Corporation UK is excited to be sponsoring one of the sculptures which will feature in The Big Dog Art Trail and is looking forward to the launch next summer.
"The project is a fantastic way to engage our local community and beyond, as participants explore the various locations these sculptures will reside."
Nationwide and Intel join Imagine Cruising, the Swindon Advertiser, Jazzbones, and inSwindon town centre BID, who have already signed up to sponsor a Swindog.
The Big Dog Art Trail will run from July 15 to September 3 2023 and end with a finale where all of the two-metre-high sculptures will be brought together under one roof, then be adopted at an auction to raise money for the children’s hospice.
The event's organisers are looking for more sponsors.
A spokesman said: "Joining The Big Dog Art Trail pack will bring your company paw-some benefits. You will be part of an event which brings thousands of visitors to your local community.
"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."
To sponsor a Swindog, visit www.bigdogarttrail.co.uk/sponsors
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