.Ten colourful bears will arrive in Southport town centre this weekend (Saturday 1st February 2025) staying until Sunday 27^th April. Inspired by the iconic ‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’ children’s picture book.

Great prizes

Visitors can explore the town centre and find 10 uniquely designed bears, as well as enjoying the chance of winning some great prizes!

 Sefton Council and Southport BID are working with Wild in Art and Walker Books to bring the much-loved children's book to life.

Trail map and clues

The ‘Bear Hunt’ is a free, family-friendly activity perfect for all ages.  Visitors can follow the trail map and use clues at each location to answer bear-themed questions on a short or longer trail.

Printed maps can be downloaded from the Southport BID website . Or they can be picked up at The Atkinson Library, ASDA, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons, Vue Cinema, and Waterstones in Southport from 1st February.

Completed maps can be dropped off at The Atkinson Library, Waterstones or you can enter your answers online.

Prizes

Two lucky winners will be drawn at random after 27th April.  Winners can choose between two prizes:

• A trip to Legoland Windsor
• A Nintendo Switch with games from GAME Southport.

There will also be a colouring competition available at town centre cafes and eateries, where children can design their own bear. 

‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’ was first published in 1989 and was written by former Children’s Laureate Michael Rosen and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury.

Exciting adventure 

Southport BID CEO Rachel Fitzgerald said: “We are looking forward to welcoming these incredible sculptures to Southport later this week.

“The ‘Bear Hunt’ will be an exciting adventure for the little ones.  It’s a great opportunity to explore our wonderful town and visit our businesses.

“The display is in place for twelve weeks, including February Half Term and the Easter school holidays, so there is plenty of time to plan your day out in Southport!"

You can find the latest information on We're Going on a Bear Hunt Southport, here.