Oxford Bus Company welcomed a special guest to its Cowley depot this month ahead of the launch of OxTrail 2024 – one of the city’s most recognisable charity events in aid of Sobell House Hospice.
Roxy – a mini version of the oxen set to appear at OxTrail 2024 – had a sneak peek around the group’s headquarters before engaging thousands of tourists across the county when the trail launches on Saturday, 06 July.
The sculpture enjoyed an ox-traordinary week of work experience, lending a helping hoof by charging the company’s fleet of all-new electric buses, getting behind the wheel, and supporting the maintenance team responsible for keeping Oxfordshire’s roads moo-ving.
Roxy’s visit formed part of Oxford Bus Company’s support of OxTrail, a free event featuring a collection of life-sized and mini-ox sculptures, each uniquely designed by talented artists.
Following the eight-week citywide trail, each sculpture will go under the hammer, with all funds supporting the work of Sobell House, a charity dedicated to providing specialist palliative care and support to adult patients and their families, friends, and carers.
Luke Marion, Oxford Bus Company Managing Director, said: “OxTrail is a really exciting event which we are hoping will encourage people to enjoy exploring Oxford city this summer, and raise lots of money for Sobell House at the same time.”
“It supports a cause close to the hearts of many people across the county, and we’re looking forward to seeing the sculptures on the streets.
“Supporting local causes that have a positive impact on people’s lives is an important aspect of our operation, and we’ll have trail maps available at our Visitor Information Point during the event.
“Welcoming Roxy to our office was the perfect way to build awareness among our team ahead of OxTrail 2024, which we hope is a huge success.”
Sobell House, part of the Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, provides specialist care to individuals and families in Oxfordshire facing life-threatening illness, death, and bereavement.
The charity supports around 3,000 patients yearly, enriching their lives and ensuring access to quality end-of-life care for everyone in Oxfordshire. Further information is available on the OxTrail 2024 website.
