A poignant testament to the collaboration between Birmingham Hospice and Rolls-Royce for the Bulls in the City art trail was unveiled at the world-famous company’s base in Solihull.
The moving Heart of Gold sculpture and a commemorative bench were revealed at a special ceremony outside their offices on Birmingham Business Park.
The world-famous engineering firm played a significant role as the Learner Programme Partner, where they provided vital support and encouraged young people to study subjects in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM).
Heart of Gold is a heartfelt design from local artists Reilly Creative, who wanted to give something back to the hospice after their grandad received compassionate care.
Simon Kirkland, Head of Manufacturing Services at Rolls-Royce, said: “This sculpture stands here not just as a piece of art but as a symbol of our partnership, community and compassion.
“Earlier this year we were honoured to support Birmingham Hospice through the Bulls in the City trail as the Learner Programme Partner.
“This gave us the opportunity to champion STEM across the local community while also helping to raise vital funds for the hospice, which provides such exceptional care to those who need it.
“The bull is a lasting memory of the importance of community, supporting each other and working with Birmingham Hospice.”
Bulls in the City saw 40 larger than life sculptures and 88 small ones placed at locations throughout the city during the summer. Each member of this colourful herd boasted their own unique design, which were created by artists, patients, community groups and schools.
Rolls-Royce donated protective varnish and chains to secure the sculptures worth thousands of pounds. Kind-hearted staff dedicated their own time to help install and remove the bulls, while the company also delivered the 30 of our mini-calves.
At the end of the trail the sculptures were auctioned off and raised significant funds, which will support our work providing end of life and palliative care for people with terminal conditions.
Rebecca Richards, Bulls in the City Project Lead, said: “From the minute Rolls-Royce came onboard as our Learning Programme Partner we knew they were going to make a huge difference.
“As an engineering giant, Rolls-Royce wanted to promote STEM to children and young people across the city so they were the perfect partner to lead our education programme.
“The whole team at Rolls-Royce are dedicated, hardworking and generous with their time. We can’t thank them enough for their support and we’re so glad Heart of Gold has been able to stay with them in Solihull.”
