Waddle-on-Sea, created by Havens Hospices in partnership with Wild in Art, will feature over 100 penguin sculptures across Southend-on-Sea, including Leigh-on-Sea, from Friday 11 July to Wednesday 3 September.
This project has been made possible by the Presenting Partner, Ipeco, along with numerous local businesses and organisations that have joined as official Event Partners or sponsored individual penguin sculptures.
On Tuesday 8th July, sponsors, partners and artists gathered to see the sculptures ready for their public debut.
Scott Bartlett from S. Stibbards & Sons said, “There is a real build-up to this preview event. Whilst we’d seen the original design, being here to see the whole sculpture in all its glory is very exciting. Personally, I’m looking forward to taking part in the trail with my family!”
Artist, Mister Mistry had travelled from his home in Enfield especially for the event. He said, “Whilst I have created sculptures for other Wild in Art trails, this is my first one for Havens Hospices. It’s amazing to see all the sculptures together. As soon as you walk through the door, the designs take on a different presence.”
Official Event Partners, Highview, attended and met up with the artist who created their penguin, Poppy Clark. Faye Lake from Highview said, “It’s been a little emotional seeing our penguin, especially with Poppy. As we’re a family-run business, we chose this design as a team, including our children. It’s a perfect fit for our company, and the final design reflects our values.
The trail will raise funds for Havens Hospices, with the large sculptures along with some baby penguins auctioned in September to support their specialist care and support for people living with incurable conditions and their families.
Vanessa Harvey from Havens Hospices added, “Having our Partners and Sponsors see the penguin sculptures at this preview has made us even more excited for the start of Waddle-on-Sea. It’s great to have their support as we prepare to place the sculptures around Southend-on-Sea and Leigh-on-Sea for everyone to enjoy this summer.
“The trail is a wonderful way for the community to come together, explore the area, and support Havens Hospices. The funds raised will help us continue providing free specialist care and support to people living with incurable conditions and their families. We’re grateful to everyone involved and look forward to welcoming visitors to the trail.”
Trail-goers can purchase a map from any Havens Hospices charity shop (whilst stocks last), Waddle HQ at The Royals Shopping Centre and The Forum. There will also be a ‘Waddle-on-Sea’ app, available for download from the App Store or Google Play.
Havens Hospices provides specialist care and support to people of all ages living with incurable conditions and their families, where and when they need it. This care is provided absolutely free of charge and is only made possible thanks to donations and fundraising initiatives such as Waddle-on-Sea.
For further information about the trail, visit www.waddleonsea.co.uk or search @waddleonsea on Instagram and Facebook.
Published on 10th July 2025
