Shocked residents and visitors to Bournemouth awoke this morning to find the prints of a giant lion, which had seemingly emerged from the sea, walked along the beach and headed to the town centre.

Measuring a staggering six by six metres the giant paw prints appeared overnight on the beach near Bournemouth Pier.

The paws were in fact designed by a team of artists and volunteers who worked through the night against the clock - and tides - to raise publicity for the launch of Pride in Bournemouth, a public art event staged in the town.

From June 25 the seaside town will become home to 50 amazing life-size lion sculptures placed in a variety of venues and locations.

Local artists have helped to create the individually designed lions which will animate the streets and public spaces until August 2011.

Substantial funds raised by the auction of the lions will be donated to wildlife charity the Born Free Foundation and local hospice Julia’s House.

• For more information see www.prideinbournemouth.co.uk