Sculpture hounds tourists in Falls Park

8 May 2009 -

A new sculpture of a mysterious dog has been unveiled at Falls Park in Belfast.

Commissioned by Belfast City Council as part of the Brighter Belfast initiative, the creation is the first of a series of artworks which will be installed in a number of locations around the capital.

The Spirit of Hedge and Hound was designed by Cookstown-born artist Martin Heron and takes the form of a large steel dog in a reference to the area's tradition of greyhound racing.

Mr Heron has also produced a series of smaller plaques leading away from the sculpture which will form a walking trail around the park.

He added: "I wanted to create a sculpture that the people of the Falls and west Belfast could relate to - and enjoy.

"The hound, running through the park has stopped mid-stride, stands upon its hind legs and looks out over the entrance to the park to watch the events of history unfold."

Falls Park hosts Saturday Clubs every fortnight, providing activities for children aged seven to 12.