CHIPPING Sodbury is set to host a Gromit statue as part of this summer's Gromit Unleashed 2 trail.

Although the identity of the sculpture remains a closely guarded secret, it has been confirmed that it will be in position in Chipping Sodbury High Street from July 2 until September 2.

A spokesman for Sodbury Chamber of Commerce praised the community for its support in securing the Gromit.

“When the word got out that the chamber were hoping to raise enough money to sponsor a Gromit for the summer, we had a lot of people wanting to get involved," he said.

“In total, we had 27 independent businesses, four larger businesses, five charities and Sodbury Town Council all contributing to the cause.

"There was also a Go Fund Me Page set up which also helped the campaign.”

With it being the first time that Chipping Sodbury has participated in the trail, the chamber have announced that a celebration will take place.

“A launch party will be held on Monday, July 2, that is when the whole trail starts and everyone is invited to come along and wear Gromit ears.”

Sodbury Town Council was also influential in sponsoring the Gromit for the area, and Cllr Rob Creer said he was very excited about the arrival of the Aardman star in the town.

“Having Gromit join us in Chipping Sodbury over the summer is brilliant news. The Chamber of Commerce has done a sterling job of getting the funds in place to be part of the Gromit Unleashed Trail.

“I want to pay tribute to all the residents who supported the campaign.

"Gromit’s massive popularity and appeal should help draw visitors to the high street to enjoy all that Chipping Sodbury has to offer over the summer months."

The chamber will be holding a Gromit colouring competition, for designers of all ages. The winning entry will be displayed in the window of the town hall.

Entrants should submit their design to the Tourist Information Centre before June 25

Following the ending of the Gromit Unleashed 2 Trail on September 2, the statue will be auctioned off, with all proceeds going to the Bristol Children’s Hospital charity.

Another location in South Gloucestershire, Bradley Stoke is also getting a Gromit.

Accountancy firm Dunkley’s is its sponsor.

Director of Dunkley’s, Lisa White, said: “We are really excited to be playing a part in such a high-profile Bristol led event. Giving back to the local area is very important to us as it is strongly rooted in our company values, so we are thrilled to be a big part of The Grand Appeal’s initiative.”

A free trail map will be available at the Unleashed shop at The Mall at Cribbs Causeway, or at a number of locations throughout Chipping Sodbury at the start of July.