£190k Bronze Lion Statue Stolen from Sea Walls Exhibition
Somewhere between Wednesday night and Thursday evening, thieves made off with a hefty 190kg bronze lion sculpture from the Sea Walls exhibition at the Downs, near Circular Road.
Big Job for Big Heist
The metal lion was nailed securely into the ground with metal pegs, meaning the culprits needed heavy muscle — and likely a large vehicle plus several people — to rip it from its spot and vanish without a trace.
Honouring a Conservation Legend
This lion isn’t just any art piece. It’s part of the Born Free Foundation’s ‘Born Free Forever’ exhibit, celebrating the charity’s founder, the late Bill Travers MBE, on what would’ve been his 100th birthday. The display features 25 life-size bronze lions, all fundraising for the Forever 1 Fund set up in Bill’s memory.
Police Appeal for Witnesses
If you saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area or have any info, Avon & Somerset Police urge you to call 101 immediately. Help bring this lion home.
