Runners can get up a head of steam on Bridgnorth art trail
Running fanatics in Bridgnorth have come up with a fun arty new way to enjoy the sport and get exercise at the same time.
Now Bridgnorth Running Club members are calling on more residents to follow their lead and make the most of a route that can be used with a mobile phone app, and use the town's locomotive art trail to get fit in the new year.
The 'Catch Me Who Can Art Trail - C'mon Find a Locomotive' project is part of Bridgnorth Art Trail and features 12 train structures located in beauty spots near the town centre for visitors to find.
Working with mobile phone app developer Rock Solid Knowledge, the club has come up with a new time trial route to test fitness while runners enjoy the best views of the town.
It is free to download and will be available in the new year, featuring a leader board for the fastest times round the route.
Rock Solid Knowledge director Andy Clymer, whose other projects includes Bristol Zoo, said: "Its a fantastic trail and we were delighted to support it."
Bridgnorth's 12 statues, which pay tribute to the 'Catch-me-who-can' locomotive by Trevethick, are positioned in locations of historical importance.
Grant
Bridgnorth Art Trail chairman Councillor Julia Buckley said:"Over 5,500 visitors have used our free trail maps and left feedback on how much they have enjoyed the trail, as a unique way to discover the town.
"As we move into our second year, we have applied for a grant to fund a further five statues. We are offering these - free of sponsorship - to local charities and community groups.
"So far we have had 10 applications, including from Bridgnorth Running Club. What a great way to raise awareness about your organisation - by commissioning a local artist to design an artwork for public display until 2022."
The council installed 12 train aluminium cast structures in key beauty spots to form a two-mile trail. Each pays tribute to Trevithick's famous "Catch-Me-Who-Can" locomotive that was first built in Bridgnorth in 1808.
Artists from the area designed the locomotives which feature an anagram letter on each plinth. Trail users are being encouraged to find all 12 letters to solve the puzzle to be in with a chance to win a free family ticket for the Severn Valley Railway.
More details about the project are on facebook.com/CatchMeWhoCanBridgnorthArtTrail or email the town council via info@bridgnorth-art-trail.org.uk.
