A COLOURFUL public arts project got off to a roaring start when enthusiastic supporters created giant paw prints on Bournemouth beach.

Pride in Bournemouth will see scores of decorated lion sculptures displayed across the town from this weekend.

Supporters spent the night digging the prints to publicise the project, which they hope will attract thousands of people to the town.

From Saturday visitors and locals will be able to pick up a trail map from Bournemouth’s Tourist Information Centre and follow it to view the lions.

Mini lions decorated by local schoolchildren will be on display in Beales and in the Richmond Gardens shopping centre.

The project is the latest in a series created by Wild in Art in towns and cities across the country. Other projects have included Go Penguins in Liverpool and Elephant Parade in London.

Local artists have joined forces with sponsors and schools to create a wide range of designs including the Daily Echo’s very own Headlion, the Elvis-themed Lionsome Tonight and Santa Paws.

Pride in Bournemouth will end with an auction to be held at the Pavilion in September with proceeds going to charities Julia’s House and the Born Free Foundation.