Introduction to Gromit Unleashed
Young people who grew up with the Gromit Unleashed trails in Bristol have been reminiscing about the latest version of the charity project, 12 years after it all began. Many have completed the first and second trails as small children and have returned to experience special memories again with the latest installation.
A Sentimental Walk Down Memory Lane
The 17-year-old Naomi, who was five years old in 2013, the year of the first Gromit trail, said: "Because I had carried out previous exams, it is a sentimental walk in the past." The sculptures will be available throughout Bristol until August 31, before they will be auctioned later this year to raise money for the Wallace & Gromit Grand Appeal, the charity that supports the Bristol Children’s Hospital.
Childhood Memories
Naomi, who is now 17, has fond memories of the first Gromit trail in 2013. She said: "I was only five years old when I did the first trail, and now I’m doing it again, it’s a great way to relive my childhood memories." Another fan, Barney, was only three years old when he took part in the first trail. He said: "I don’t think I will ever grow out of these characters because I saw them from such a young age, it was one of the first things I was really into."
A Lasting Impact
Barney, who is now 15 and over 6 feet tall, still loves to collect models of the Aardman characters. He said: "When the first trail came out in 2013, I was three years old and remember being really excited because I had seen all the Wallace and Gromit films." The brothers Leo and Hugh also have a special connection to the trail. They started donating to the charity after their sister Lydia died of a heart condition, and since then, they have collected £65,000.
The Power of Gromit
Anna Hitchcock, head of commercial at The Grand Appeal, said: "Gromit is really important for many people in Bristol, and the character pulls people in." She added: "Something about the trail is about getting back to basics, going out with the family in good weather, and exploring Bristol and spending time together." The trail has become a beloved tradition in Bristol, with many families returning year after year to experience the magic of Gromit Unleashed.
The Legacy of Gromit Unleashed
The Gromit Unleashed trails have been a huge success, raising millions of pounds for the Bristol Children’s Hospital. The trails have also become a staple of Bristol’s cultural scene, with many locals and visitors alike flocking to see the iconic sculptures. As the latest trail comes to a close, fans of all ages will be eagerly anticipating the next installment of Gromit Unleashed. With its unique blend of art, charity, and community, the trail is sure to continue to delight and inspire for years to come.
