Northampton has Pride

25 June 2010, 07:44 | Updated: 25 June 2010, 08:04

One of the biggest public art projects ever seen in Northamptonshire is going on show - and officials say it'll be a roaring success.

For ten weeks the Pride of Northampton will bring 40 lions into the town centre. Some have been sponsored by local firms whilst others have been brought to life by local or specially selected artists.

Similar projects have already been hugely successful in cities like Liverpool, Manchester, Norwich and Dublin.

The Pride of Northampton has been developed by Northampton Borough Council in partnership with the arts and education company Wild in Art and is being supported by local schools and businesses.

Councillor Paul Varnsverry, Northampton Borough Council's cabinet member for culture said: "The Pride of Northampton will be a huge event for the town. We have already had a really positive response from everyone who has had a sneak preview at our lions so I cannot wait until we can unveil them for everyone to enjoy this summer.

"The Pride of Northampton has been a year in the making and will make this summer one to remember. Pictures really do not do these beautiful works of art justice, so come into the town centre and find out why our town is full of Pride this summer."

After ten weeks there will be a charity auction where each sculpture is sold off to raise money for the Born Free Foundation and the local Cynthia Spencer Hospice. 

More details here