A trail of decorative lions to roam Cheltenham and Gloucester

Over 30 decorative lions will be unleashed onto the streets of Cheltenham and Gloucester next year.

Author: Rachael WhitePublished 18th May 2024

The art trail is part of a major fundraising appeal for new cancer facilities in Cheltenham.

It has been organised by the Cheltenham and Gloucester Hospital Charity and hopes to raise money for new digital consulting rooms, space for state-of-the-art research, as well as a therapeutic outside space in Cheltenham.

Each animal sculpture has been individually decorated by artists and will be up for auction following the trail.

The attraction - which will take place next summer also hopes to boost the local economy, and promote the work of local artists.

Charlie Homer, Head of Fundraising, said:

"We know cancer services are going to become in higher demand as the population grows older and we know one in two people will be affected by cancer in their lifetime. We aim to have the best cancer facilities for patients to access.

"We know the trail will drive a huge amount of footfall and will have a huge economic benefit. Whilst ultimately it will raise money to support the charity and our ambition to support cancer treatment."

Gloucester BID Manager Emily Gibbon, said:

“We are thrilled about the opportunity it brings for our local people, businesses and the economy of Gloucestershire.

"We can’t wait for the streets to be roaring with fun during the summer of 2025 and of course to help raise funds for this important cause."

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.