Reindeer Trail initiative is given the seal of approval
A herd of lifesize model reindeer, that were displayed in Stirling businesses over the festive period, are to make a comeback in December.
The group of 1.7-metre animals, designed and decorated by schoolchildren, were part of a Reindeer Trail around the city.
They have now returned to their `secret location’ but will be back for a repeat performance after the initiative organised by Go Forth Stirling Business Improvement District was hailed a success.
Go Forth Stirling director, Jon Walton, said the trail proved popular with families and the traders who took part.
“It created a real buzz and lots of smiles around the city and was great for sparking people’s curiosity,” he added.
Schools across Stirling were invited to come up with individual or group designs for the livery of the reindeers who made up the trail.
More than 160 entries were submitted and the 20 winners were chosen from 17 schools.
They were provided with paints to bring their designs to fruition and the 20 decorated reindeer were placed in shops and businesses across the city.
Shoppers were encouraged to pick up a map, complete with clues, and find all the reindeer – naming the school which designed and painted the reindeer when they spotted each one – in a competition which could win them an iPad.
More than 800 competition entries have been received by Go Forth Stirling and these are currently being checked by staff. All entrants with the 20 correct answers will be placed into a prize draw and the iPad winner, plus five runners-up, will be announced later this month.
One of the schools involved will win a prize for best design.
Education committee chairperson Susan McGill said: “The trail was a fantastic initiative for Stirling’s schools to be involved in and it produced a real excitement among pupils. The reindeer they created were diverse, individual and imaginative. We set up the opportunity like a real design job, sending the schools a brief and asking the children to create a prototype design.
“This meant they drew upon skills including creativity, co-operation and critical thinking.”
Labour councillor Margaret Brisley said the reindeer added to the Christmas decorations across the city centre and bolstered festive spirit among visitors.