This summer, Leigh Road Baptist Church (LRBC) is home to a vibrant gathering of penguins as part of Waddle-on-Sea—a joyful public art trail created by Havens Hospices in partnership with Wild in Art.
Running until Wednesday 3rd September, Waddle-on-Sea features over 30 large penguin sculptures and more than 70 baby penguins spread across Southend-on-Sea and Leigh-on-Sea. We’re thrilled to be hosting nine beautifully decorated baby penguins in our Welcome Area on Marguerite Drive, with one impressive giant penguin standing proudly just outside the church garden on Leigh Road—a colourful ambassador for creativity, compassion and community spirit.
The trail celebrates local art and raises vital funds for Havens Hospices, which provides free, specialist care for children and adults living with incurable conditions across Essex, supporting them and their loved ones through some of life’s most difficult times.
“We’re so pleased to be part of Waddle-on-Sea,” said David Elcock, LRBC’s Community Worker.
“After hosting many elephants during Herd in the City two years ago, it’s a joy to welcome these brilliant penguins to the church. These trails are more than just fun—they raise awareness and funds for an incredible charity doing essential work in our community. It’s a real privilege to be involved again.”
Each penguin has been uniquely designed by local artists, schools or community groups, offering a free and inspiring way to explore the city while supporting a cause that touches so many.
While trail maps are not available at LRBC, you can pick them up from Havens Hospices shops, the Pier Information Centre, The Forum, Leigh Library, and the Waddle-on-Sea HQs at The Royals Shopping Centre and Haven’s Reloved 141 Leigh Road. Or, for digital explorers, download the Waddle-on-Sea app from the App Store or Google Play to guide your trail.
At the end of the trail, all penguins will gather one final time for a special Farewell Weekend on 13–14 September, before many are auctioned to raise even more money for Havens Hospices’ vital services.
To find out more or book Farewell Weekend tickets, visit www.waddleonsea.co.uk.
If you’re waddling through Leigh this summer, pop in to see the penguins at LRBC—we’re delighted to be part of this creative and compassionate celebration.