TransPennine Express (TPE) is giving people in Kirklees, West Yorkshire, the chance to find out more about the sculptures on the Snowdog trail in the towns and villages across the area, and the artist who created them.

The Snowdog trail is organised by The Kirkwood hospice in Kirklees, in partnership with Wild in Art and Snowman Enterprises Ltd. It is a free large-scale art trail of sculptures that for eight weeks this autumn will show off the best creative talent from local, regional, and national artists. The trail will cover several key calling points on the TransPennine Express network, including Huddersfield, Dewsbury, Batley, and Slaithwaite.

The trail officially launched to the public yesterday, Friday, 2nd September, and will run for eight weeks. It will help raise awareness and essential funds for The Kirkwood as it continues its work to help and support those living with a life-limiting illness in Kirklees while encouraging visitors from far and wide to explore parts of the area they are familiar with.

Further information about the Snowdog trail can be found at www.snowdogskirklees.org.uk

As part of the event, businesses are being given the chance to sponsor one of the Snowdog sculptures, which gives them a unique and exciting way to promote their business. Now, TransPennine Express (TPE) is giving people in Kirklees, West Yorkshire, the chance to find out more about the sculptures on the Snowdog trail in the towns and villages across the area, and the artist who created them.

Earlier this year TransPennine Express announced sponsorship for Snowdogs Support Life, whilst in July, a display of community art was put on display outside Huddersfield station.

One of the artists is Chris Leaper, who is also known as Jesmond Cat Designs and is an illustrator who uses traditional media for his designs. He has previously worked on children’s books and calendars and has titled his latest project the ‘Kirklees Rocket’ Snowdog.

When asked for the inspiration behind his design, Chris said: “I wanted to pay homage to the expansive railway links that connect our borough with the rest of the UK.
“The Kirklees Rocket features a train-like construction with metal plates and rivets, similar to an old-fashioned steam locomotive”.

Organised by The Kirkwood, in partnership with Wild in Art and Snowman Enterprises Ltd, Snowdogs Support Life, Kirklees is inspired by Raymond Briggs’ classic picture book and film, The Snowman™ and its sequel The Snowdog.

When asked what motivated him to enter a design, Chris said: “I saw the art trail as a way to push myself out of my comfort zone, this is my first attempt at painting a 3D sculpture.

“Having worked solitary for a while, I also saw this as a great opportunity to interact with and work alongside other artists and creatives.

“I’ve also previously collaborated with TPE on designing artwork for the Huddersfield station cats, Felix and Bolt. I hoped for another opportunity to create together.”

Chris added: “My wife and I don’t drive so rail travel and the TPE services are essential to take us to our favourite places.

“I can’t wait for the trail to open and for people across the UK to have the opportunity to see what West Yorkshire has to offer!”