From 19 September to 29 November, streets, parks and open spaces across Tyneside and Gateshead will be home to Great North Snowdogs; a trail of 60 large and 95 mini sculptures, inspired by the Raymond Briggs story, The Snowman™ and The Snowdog.
The 1.5m high Snowdog sculptures will be individually decorated by professional artists and celebrities and a trail map, app and website will lead visitors from popular tourist destinations to lesser known areas of the region, along the route covered by the Metro system and other public transport.
And, to help visitors get the most of their trip to the North East the region’s newest hotel is encouraging offering a discounted room rate.
During the course of the event The Hilton Garden Inn Hotel, Sunderland, is offering a 20 per cent discount on its best available rate, subject to availability.
The 141-bedroom hotel, adjacent to Sunderland AFC’s Stadium of Light, is the only one of its brand between Birmingham and Glasgow and, along with a state-of-the-art gym, houses the highly regarded Karbon Grill, pan-American fusion restaurant.
“Around 10 large Snowdogs will be placed in key locations around the city, including at The Bridges shopping centre, the National Glass Centre, Sunderland Minster and our neighbours the Stadium of Light” said Kim Kelso, General Manager for Hilton Garden Inn, Sunderland.
“They will provide a great incentive to visit the area and see just what a huge wealth of culture, history and attractions are on offer here and we can’t wait to welcome visitors.”
Great North Snowdogs is the brainchild of creative producers Wild in Art, in partnership with Newcastle-based charity, St Oswald’s Children’s Hospice, which provides short breaks and respite for North East young people with incurable conditions, and help and support for their families and loved ones.
And, once the trail draws to a close on 29 November, there will be one final opportunity to see all the large Snowdogs together at the Farewell Weekend event before the sculptures are auctioned to raise funds for St Oswald’s Children’s Hospice.
“We very much hope as many people as possible will come along and follow the Great North Snowdogs trail,” said Anita Ball, Director of Income Generation and Marketing, at St Oswald’s Children’s Hospice.
“Not only will they see some amazingly decorated sculptures but it will be a great way of exploring some of the North East’s most famous sights – and its hidden gems.”
Reservations can be made by contacting 0191 500 9494 or enquiries@hgisunderland.com and callers must quote Great North Snowdogs at the time of booking. The Hilton Garden Inn offer is not available on 24 September or on1 and 28 October.
For further information about Great North Snowdogs, call 0191 285 0063 or visit www.greatnorthsnowdogs.co.uk.