New character unveiled to join Wallace and Gromit

Norbot the smart gnome is Wallace’s enigmatic new invention from Vengeance Most Fowl

The makers of Wallace and Gromit and a children's charity have unveiled a new sculpture for an upcoming trail in Bristol.

Aardman characters Wallace, Gromit and Feathers McGraw will be joined by Norbot the smart gnome on the streets of Bristol from 30 June 2025.

Since 2013, the art trail has generated more than £20m for The Grand Appeal, which raises money for Bristol Children’s Hospital charity.

Nicola Masters, co-founder and director of The Grand Appeal, said: "Aardman and Bristol go together like cheese and crackers."

Ms Masters said the appeal had "lots of surprises" in store at 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.

"We feel honoured to be partnered with Aardman for 29 and three-quarter years," she added.

The Grand Appeal creative lead Emily Golden with Gromit

Ms Golden with King of Diamonds - a playful Feathers McGraw sculpture

Aardman managing director Sean Clarke said the company was incredibly proud of its partnership with The Grand Appeal.

"We cannot wait to bring the excitement and energy of the trail to the streets of Bristol next year and create more memorable moments," he said.

"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, said money raised 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.

"It truly brings magic to patients, their families and of course everyone visiting the city," she added.