Virgin Trains have revealed that they have been announced as Presenting Partner for this year’s Manchester Bee in the City.

This 9-week long event will be one of the largest mass participation public art events ever held in the north-west and is expected to bring around 1 million visitors to the city centre.

Over 80 differently designed bees will go on display through the streets, parks and other public places in Manchester from July until September.

Visitors can follow the accessible trail, looking out for the two Virgin Trains Bees, with help from the Bee in the City App.

The Bees will be last seen at an auction in October and will help leave a lasting legacy for local charities via the We Love MCR Charity.

What did the officials say?

Ady Crymble, Customer Experience Manager for Virgin Trains in Manchester, said:

“We’re incredibly excited to BEE on board. It will bring added life and energy to the city centre, connecting the wider community and showcasing all that is good about Manchester.

“It will provide a massive boost for the local community, putting a smile on peoples’ faces whilst raising money for such a worthy cause, and rest assured we will be looking to add a bit of Virgin Trains fun to the celebration this summer.”

Sally-Ann Wilkinson, Director, Wild in Art said:

“We are thrilled to have Virgin Trains on board as a Bee in the City Presenting Partner. Thousands of families will be travelling to Manchester on Virgin Trains from July to September to enjoy what will be one of the biggest and most spectacular public art events ever. Virgin Trains is the perfect partner to take our trail-goers on a creative journey of discovery this summer!”

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