SHOPPERS were given a sneak peek of a top secret Snowdog design when artists decorated it in front of a live audience.

Passsers-by gathered to watch as top of the range acrylic paint was used to add colour and texture to Splash hound, the Snowdog sponsored by Lawrence Art Supplies.

The Snowdog is being prepared for the Snowdogs by the Sea public art trail in Brighton and Hove with the beautiful creations dotted around the city.

Between 10am and 5pm on Saturday, Amy Lawrence, the daughter of Martin Lawrence, who runs the store in Portland Road, Hove, teamed up with artist Aimee Brigginshaw to bring the idea to life.

The pair spent most of the day in the window of the shop in full view of passers-by as they worked on their creation.

Those watching the artists were asked not to reveal the final details of the design on Facebook, Twitter or other social media and keep the image to themselves until the 5ft tall dog takes its place on the streets of the city alongside 40 others.

Miss Lawrence said: “We had a lot of interest from children which is a positive sign for the trail itself. They were really fascinated by what was happening.

“We got the bulk of the work done and he’s all painted now apart from a couple of patches.

“We had to make some last minute decisions such as the colour of his ears but I’m very happy with how he has turned out. He’s very colourful and eye-catching.

“I think it is really good we are getting this project. So many other towns have had trails like this but Brighton, which is the most creative town in England, has never had one.

“It is long overdue and I’m really looking forward to it.”

The Argus is the media partner for the Martlets Hospice and Wild Art Snowdogs by the Sea project.

To get involved contact Sarah Harvey at The Martlets Hospice on 01273 718797, email sarah.harvey@martlets.org.uk or visit snowdogsbythesea.co.uk.