Trentham Estate becomes first official Staffy sponsor

Trentham Estate has become the first organisation to sponsor one of ten ‘Staffy’ sculptures forming a major new public art trail to mark the tenth anniversary of Staffordshire Day.

As the first confirmed Staffy Supporter, Trentham has purchased one of the large-scale sculptures, which will take pride of place in Stafford during the 10-week celebration this spring and summer.

Following the trail, the sculpture will return to Trentham Estate as a lasting legacy of its involvement.

Each sculpture on the trail is modelled on Staffy, the county’s new canine visitor mascot introduced by the Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Visitor Economy Partnership.

Trentham’s bespoke sculpture will be painted by local schoolchildren and incorporate the Estate’s branding and colours.

Alastair Budd, Senior Director at Trentham Estate, said:

“We’re proud to be the first sponsor of the Staffy Trail, which celebrates everything that makes Staffordshire such a special place.

“Staffy is an important symbol for the county, and as one of Staffordshire’s key visitor attractions, it’s important for us to support that and help show people what the area has to offer.

“I’d really encourage other businesses to get involved so that together we can promote the whole of Staffordshire.”

Martin Murray, Acting Leader and Cabinet Member for Economy and Skills at Staffordshire County Council, said:

“Trentham coming on board as the first Staffy sponsor is a fantastic vote of confidence in both the trail and the wider programme marking 10 years of Staffordshire Day.

“The Staffy Trail will bring more visitors into our towns, support local businesses and showcase the creativity and pride that runs through Staffordshire. We’re looking forward to welcoming many more organisations as Staffy Supporters.”

Businesses across Staffordshire can get involved by sponsoring a Staffy sculpture.

Supporters benefit from brand visibility across the trail, inclusion on the trail app, access to project events, and the opportunity to help bring a unique piece of public art to life.

The deadline to express an interest in becoming a Staffy supporter is Sunday 15 March.

There is still time for people of all ages to submit their Staffy designs for the art trail competition, which closes on Monday 2 March. Templates can be downloaded here or picked up at any Staffordshire library.

For more information about the competition or to become a Staffy sponsor, visit https://www.visitstaffordshire.com/whats-on/staffordshire-day/ or email staffy@staffordshire.gov.uk.