The Pride with a Purpose - Lions at Large Auction to roar for Hospital Charity

Thousands have followed the Lions at Large Trail, discovering majestic lion sculptures decorated by artists and displayed across Gloucestershire’s iconic landmarks and everyday spots. All 32 large lions, alongside three little lion cubs, will be looking to find their forever homes at the upcoming Auction hosted at Gloucester Cathedral.

The Pride will be auctioned on Thursday 9th October, the evening will be overseen by auctioneer Stuart Maule from Harper Field Auctioneers and Valuers. The funds raised will support Cheltenham and Gloucester Hospitals Charity’s Big Space Cancer Appeal; helping to build a state-of-the-art cancer care facility at Cheltenham General Hospital.

Cheltenham and Gloucester Hospitals Charity Head of Income Generation, Charlie Homer, said “We’ve been absolutely blown away by the response to Lions at Large this summer. It’s been incredible to see so many people out exploring, sharing stories and making memories.”

“The trail has brought colour, community and joy to Gloucestershire - and all for a very important cause. We are hugely grateful to everyone who has played a part; our presenting partners, sponsors, schools, community groups and volunteers, your support has made this experience truly unforgettable.”

“Now we are looking ahead to the auction - where the pride can make its biggest roar! This will be the key moment to raise funds and we’d love to see as many people getting involved as possible. It promises to be a really special evening and we can’t wait to find out where each lion will make its forever home.”

The starting price for each sculpture is £3,000 with proceeds supporting the hospitals charity. Online bidding will be available in the weeks leading up to the auction, for anyone wanting to get their paws on a unique piece of art.

Two of the stunning sculptures on display - The Tyger sponsored by Ontic and Look for Stars sponsored by Mason & Stokes - have been designed by local artist Janine Smith. “Each of my lion designs have very personal and poignant meanings, which I hope supports the amazing cause behind the Lions at Large Trail. The Tyger, a tiger striped lion, honours William Blake’s poem and the incredible Oncology Team who treated my Dad over 15 years ago. I wanted it to stand out, just like the outstanding cancer care he received.”

“Look for Stars is a celestial tribute to cancer support networks and the hope they bring. Inspired by quotes from Martin Luther King Jr. and Oscar Wilde, it reflects the message of The Big Space Cancer Appeal; finding hope and beauty, even in difficult and challenging times. Whether that be for the person diagnosed, their families and loved ones, or the incredible NHS staff.”

You can see Janine’s designs at the Lions at Large Roarsome Reunion. For one weekend only the entire pride, big and small, will be together at Cheltenham Racecourse on the 4th and 5th October. It is your last chance to snap a selfie with the lions, pick up exclusive merchandise and enter the raffle to win an overnight stay in a lion lodge.

Dr Jessica Bailey, Clinical Consultant Oncologist and Clinical Lead for Oncology at Gloucestershire Hospitals, said “We’ve been overwhelmed by the incredible community response to the Lions at Large Trail. Seeing families, friends and colleagues out enjoying the trail has meant the world to us. As the lions now go to auction, we are so grateful to everyone taking part.”

“Our team is dedicated to delivering outstanding cancer care for patients across Gloucestershire and beyond. With the plans for the new centre, we are all so excited to create a space that truly reflects the exceptional care and support we strive to provide every single day. Every single bid at the auction will help bring us one step closer, helping to make a real difference for local patients and their families for years to come.”