23 Jan 2025

West Midlands Metro brings bulls into the city

West Midlands Metro.jpg

West Midlands Metro has announced their support for a charity art project charging into Birmingham city centre this summer - Bulls in the City.

Metro will be one of the key sponsors of this brand-new art trail, which will support Birmingham Hospice, with a parade of larger-than-life sculptures inspired by the legendary Bullring Bull in Birmingham.

The project will not only celebrate the city’s rich heritage but also showcase the incredible talent of local artists.

As part of Metro’s sponsorship, a bespoke bull designed by a local artist will be commissioned which reflects the network’s brand colours and identity.

The initiative will also engage local schools, bringing communities together through promotional activities to support the project.

Michael Reading-Skilton, Metro’s head of commercial, said: “The Bulls in the City trail will offer a fantastic opportunity to bring communities from across the region together to celebrate Birmingham’s rich heritage while supporting an important cause.

“Over the coming months, we’ll work closely with event organisers, Birmingham Hospice and Wild in Art, to explore additional ways to contribute to this exciting initiative, which will potentially attract thousands of visitors to the city.”

Now a symbol of pride, the bull has been associated with Birmingham’s identity since the 16th century, when permission was granted to bait bulls on a green near St Martin’s church.

This heritage was further established with the construction of the city’s popular Bull Ring Shopping Centre in the 1960s.

More recently, Ozzy the Bull, the memorable mascot of the 2022 Commonwealth Games captured the hearts of the city.

Birmingham Hospice, the organisers behind the trail, shared their enthusiasm for the collaboration.

Rebecca Richards, senior events manager of the hospice said: “We are so excited to be bringing the next large art trail to Birmingham City Centre in the summer of 2025 to raise vital funds for Birmingham Hospice and spread awareness about the essential work we do all over the city of Birmingham.

“This wouldn’t be possible without the amazing organisations who have come on board as sponsors so we thank West Midlands Metro, and all other sponsors, for their support for what will truly be a brilliant campaign.”

Michael added: “We’re excited to be involved in this ambitious project that promises to deliver a memorable experience for everyone involved while raising the profile of a very worthy cause.”

Click here to know more about Bulls in the City.

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