A pride of 30 lions is set to roam the streets, not in search of prey, but to raise funds for proposed new cancer facilities.
Each lion sculpture, uniquely adorned by talented artists, will grace the streets of Cheltenham and Gloucester during the summer of 2025.
Local businesses are invited to sponsor these magnificent creations, which will later be auctioned off to support the cause following the “Lions At Large” trail.
Organized by the Cheltenham and Gloucester Hospitals Charity, this initiative precedes a major fundraising campaign for the envisioned facilities in Cheltenham, slated for launch in late 2024.
The proposed cancer facilities in Cheltenham promise innovative features such as digital consulting rooms, cutting-edge research spaces, and a therapeutic outdoor area.
Richard Smith, associate director at the hospitals charity, explained the symbolic choice of lions for the trail: “We are thrilled to introduce this art trail, with our lions making their presence felt across Cheltenham and Gloucester. Lions were chosen as they symbolize the bravery exhibited by all those confronting cancer, whether as patients or loved ones.”
Partnering with Wild At Heart, renowned for orchestrating trails during the 2012 Olympics in London, the charity aims to bring this impactful project to fruition.
In addition to the main trail, there will be opportunities to support an educational program for schools and youth groups, involving the decoration of miniature lion sculptures.
Both Cheltenham and Gloucester Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) have pledged their support as presenting partners for the trail in their respective areas.
Emily Gibbon, Manager of Gloucester BID, expressed pride in backing the trail and the charitable cause: “We are immensely proud to support this initiative and the Cheltenham and Gloucester Hospitals Charity. We anticipate a summer filled with excitement, as our streets come alive with these captivating lion sculptures, all while contributing to a vital cause.”