The trail, created in collaboration with Wild in Art, filled the city with 31 super-sized penguin sculptures, as well as smaller ones designed by schools, community groups, and artists, transforming Southend into a spectacular outdoor art gallery throughout the summer.

The family-friendly event raised vital funds for the specialist care and support Havens Hospices provides for local people of all ages living with incurable conditions and their families.

The Council played an important role in helping with the smooth installation of the penguins across the city. Councillors, including the Cabinet Member for Culture, Tourism and Business, Matt Dent, were welcomed to Fair Havens ahead of the trail to tour the hospice and see one of the penguins up close.

Cllr Matt Dent said, “Havens Hospices does incredible work in our community, and we are so lucky to have them. These public art trails attract thousands of residents and visitors, creating a real buzz in the city. As a thriving coastal destination, we love events like this – especially when they support such an important local charity.”

The success of the trail was also made possible thanks to many local partners. Ipeco joined as Presenting Partner, alongside Official Partners BTMK, Highview, Able Group and Revive Digital. Rickard Luckin returned as the Learning & Community Programme Partner, with Atlantic Pacific as Logistics Partner, 6rs as Creative Partner, Main Media as Videography Partner, the Echo as Media Partner and BBC Essex as Radio Partner.

There’s still time to get involved and support the charity. The Waddle-on-Sea Farewell Weekend takes place on 13 and 14 September, giving the public one last chance to see the full huddle together before they head off to their forever homes. The penguins will then go under the hammer later in September at a special charity auction, with online bidding now open.

Vanessa Harvey, Project Manager for Havens Hospices, said, “We are so grateful to Southend-on-Sea City Council and all our partners who made Waddle-on-Sea possible. The trail has brought so much joy to the city, and there are still opportunities to help raise vital funds for the specialist care and support we provide – whether by joining us at the Farewell Weekend, entering our raffle or bidding for your very own penguin.”

For more information about the Waddle-on-Sea Farewell Weekend, raffle or auction, visit www.waddleonsea.co.uk

 Published on 8th September 2025