ARTISTS are being urged to get involved with the biggest and most colourful public art event ever staged in Bournemouth.

Organisers hope Pride in Bournemouth will see 50 large decorated lion sculptures and scores of mini lions displayed across the borough this summer.

Sponsors are being matched to artists who will paint the lions in time for the event, similar to other successful projects across the country.

London’s Elephant Parade and Go Penguins in Liverpool are among the events which attracted thousands of extra visitors to the cities and made huge sums for charity.

Residents and visitors to Bournemouth this summer will be able to follow a trail and the sculptures will then be auctioned off to raise money for local charity Julia’s House and international charity the Born Free Foundation.

Artist Natalie Guy is in the process of decorating a lion for solicitors Coles Mille and is urging members of the public to join her at Bournemouth’s main library over the next few weeks.

Natalie, from Poppies Art Workshops, said: “It is a fantastic opportunity and gives artists a platform.”

Sandwich chain Subway, are also urging their customers to help them design “Sublime Sublion”.