Norbot the Smart Gnome Introduced for Bristol’s Wallace and Gromit Art Trail

A new sculpture has been revealed by the creators of Wallace and Gromit and a children’s charity, intended for an upcoming trail in Bristol. The Aardman characters Wallace, Gromit, and Feathers McGraw will be accompanied by Norbot the smart gnome on Bristol’s streets starting 30 June 2025. Since 2013, this art trail has generated over £20 million for The Grand Appeal, an organization that raises funds for Bristol Children’s Hospital charity. Nicola Masters, co-founder and director of The Grand Appeal, stated: “Aardman and Bristol go together like cheese and crackers.” Ms Masters also mentioned that the appeal has “lots of surprises” planned for next year’s trail. “We are ready to embrace Bristol’s pioneering, innovative, and creative spirit and Gromit’s inventiveness to develop Gromit Unleashed and deliver our next sculpture trail.” She further added, “We feel honoured to be partnered with Aardman for 29 and three-quarter years.” Sean Clarke, Aardman’s managing director, conveyed the company’s immense pride in its collaboration with The Grand Appeal. He remarked, “We cannot wait to bring the excitement and energy of the trail to the streets of Bristol next year and create more memorable moments.” Clarke also noted, “The fact that it comes hot off the heels of the release of our next Wallace and Gromit film Vengeance Most Fowl, and as we celebrate 30 years of partnership with the charity, makes it even more meaningful.” Martin Gargan, clinical chair of the women’s and children’s division at University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, explained that money collected from the trails supports sick children from Bristol, across the south west of England, and south Wales. “When the trails take place, the excitement is palpable, not just around the city but within the walls of the hospital.” He concluded, “It truly brings magic to patients, their families and of course everyone visiting the city.”