The Netherton Regeneration Strategic Group has been asked to sponsor three local schools to design and make their own pony sculptures which will go on display on the Brierley Hill pony sculpture trail in the summer of 2010. Hillcrest School, Northfield Rd Primary School and Netherton C of E Primary School will receive £500 each to take part in the event which was Inspired by ‘King Bladud's Pigs' sculpture trail in Bath 2008 (www. kingbladudspigs.org)

The project organized by Dudley Performing Arts is a public art event which will provide residents and visitors with the opportunity to explore the area along various walking trails that will use the pony sculptures as a means of encouraging participation, exploration and enjoyment of the area. The pony was chosen after consultation with local people as to what animal they felt represented their area. The pony has a strong link with the Black Country because of the mining, canal and gypsy heritage in the area and struck a chord with those polled as a good emblem for Dudley .

The project will involve up to 100 artists from in and around the borough who will work in conjunction with schools, colleges and community groups in Dudley wishing to be involved in the project, creating public ownership of the works and introducing young people to differing art forms. The regeneration group is based at the Savoy Centre in Netherton which is managed by the Black Country Housing Group and the photo shows centre manager Chris Woods handing over one of the cheques to Hillcrest school to enable them to take part in the event.