ST Clare Hospice and Cloudco Entertainment are delighted to unveil the first of 30 fantastically decorated lion sculptures that will roam the streets of Harlow and Epping in summer 2026, as part of a free sculpture trail called Lions on the Loose, brought to you by St Clare Hospice in partnership with global art producers Wild in Art.

The first decorated lion, revealed today, has been transformed into a vibrant Care Bears themed masterpiece, bringing colour, joy, and a message of compassion to the community.

Rosie Knowles, Deputy CEO of St Clare Hospice, said, “What a fabulous treat we have in store for local people! Our hero lion has been decorated in the colourful and popular Care Bears style, bringing feelings of care and fun to the 2026 trail.”

Rosie continued, “We are delighted that local art team MurWalls – an internationally renowned mural street art collective – has taken on the challenge of making the leader of the pack something truly special.”

Lions on the Loose will be a free public art trail, taking over the streets and green spaces of Harlow and Epping in summer 2026. Each sculpture will be uniquely designed by talented artists later this year, with the Care Bears lion expected to be a standout favourite.

Rosie added, “A Care Bears-themed lion is a well-matched collaboration for our local hospice, and we hope collectors from across the world will be keen to bid on him at our auction at the end of the trail next autumn. Once the trail is over, every lion sculpture will be looking for a new forever home after they have spent the summer exploring Epping and Harlow, so make sure you get out on the trail next year and pick your favourite. We are delighted to be working with Marc and the team from MurWalls, and we think you’ll agree – the street art mural design is extraordinary. It truly is one of a kind!”

Marc Silver, Founder and CEO of MurWalls, said, “We are proud to support St Clare Hospice by painting a bright and glittery lion sculpture for their upcoming trail. The Care Bears’ message of compassion, kindness, and emotional support mirrors the heart of St Clare’s mission – providing comfort and care to those who need it most. Both bring warmth in times of vulnerability. We believe art has the power to heal, connect, and inspire. These values perfectly align with the incredible work of St Clare Hospice.”

Lions on the Loose is proudly sponsored by Harlow Health Centre Trust, Harlow Council, and Epping Forest District Council – working together for the good of our local communities.

Charlie Langhorne, Managing Director and Co-founder, Wild in Art said: “We’re thrilled to be partnering with St Clare Hospice to bring ‘Lions on the Loose’ to life in Harlow and Epping. At Wild in Art, we believe in the power of creativity to unite communities, spark conversations, and create unforgettable shared experiences. This Care Bears lion is the perfect start to what promises to be an extraordinary trail. But we can’t do it alone – we’re calling on local businesses and organisations to get involved and sponsor a lion.

It’s a fantastic opportunity to support your community, boost your brand, and be part of something truly special in 2026.”

To sponsor a lion or learn more, visit lionsontheloose.co.uk or contact Trail Coordinator Lucy Woodington at [email protected] or 01279 773753.