SPONSORS will find out this week which artist will be designing their Snowdog.

The giant models will be decorated with different artistic designs before descending on Brighton and Hove streets later this year.

Businesses, groups and individuals who put their names to the 1.5 metre sculptures will find out which artists will decorate their dogs with which designs on Thursday.

More than 30 have signed up so far, pledging £5,000 for the privilege to help raise money for The Martlets Hospice.

Some of the latest to join the pack include Bill's restaurant, Bella Italia and Brighton and Hove Buses.

Bus company managing director Martin Harris said: "What better way to help The Martlets fundraise than with an engaging arts trail that will offer a great way for people to get involved in the boundless creativity of Brighton and Hove.

"We're all about moving people around the city and helping them get out and about to explore the exciting things the city has to offer – and as most the Snowdogs will be located on our bus routes, if people don't fancy the walk, they can hop on one of our services. We've also got design plans for our dog that's inspired by artwork you can spot on one of our buses."

Jack Carey, from Bill’s, said: "As soon as we heard about this project we wanted to be a part of it. An art trail, Brighton, a massive dog, a great cause. What's not to love.

"There will be a huge buzz around town once the trail is all set up. It's a very clever and quirky idea and a perfect fit for Bill's. We are very excited about the unveiling of the potential designs and finding out which artist we will be working with. Surely the dog's name has to be Bill. Although Bill's own and much beloved dog is called Frank, so that could also be a contender."

Ivanna Matsyupa, from Bella Italia, said: "Bella Italia is really excited about sponsoring our own 'cane neve’ (Italian for snow dog) this autumn and being part of this amazing public art trail.

"Our third city restaurant is opening in Brighton Marina this July, so it is an important location for Bella, and this opportunity to raise money for such a worthwhile cause couldn’t pass us by.

"We are already having so much fun thinking about the design - and we will be running a competition to name our Snow Dog too, so watch this space."

They join scores of other organisations like Sussex Police and well-known faces including author Peter James and DJ Fatboy Slim.

The Martlets is taking pledges up until May 26.

Some 40 dogs will be on display around the city in conjunction with Wild in Art. The Argus is the official media partner for the project.

How to get involved

ORGANISERS are on the hunt for sponsors to take part in the Snowdogs by the Sea trail.

Businesses, groups, organisations and individuals are invited to pledge £5,000 in return for being linked to one of the giant-sized models.

Artists will be chosen to decorate each of the Snowdogs. Each dog will be unique, with its own design, personality and story.

To get involved call Sarah Harvey at The Martlets Hospice on 01273 718797 or by emailing sarah.harvey@martlets.org.uk by May 26.