Southend-based estate agency’s newest addition to the team is a golden Emperor Penguin called Caesar.

He is the work of artist Tim Sutcliffe, stands five feet tall and is clad in Roman armour featuring an imperial wreath on his head.

Ayers & Cruiks have sponsored him as part of the Waddle-on-Sea trail, a summer art project organised by Havens Hospices and Wild in Art.

103 penguins

The trail features 31 large penguin sculptures and 72 smaller ones, which have been located around iconic landmarks in Southend-on-Sea and Leigh-on-Sea. Participants have until 3rd September to find them all.

Steve Ayers, director of Ayers & Cruiks, tells the Echo: “Ayers & Cruiks is proud to support Waddle-on-Sea, the colourful public art trail bringing joy and fundraising to our community this summer.

“We’ve sponsored a striking penguin sculpture by Tim Sutcliffe, now on display outside Victoria train station — just a short walk from our offices on Baxter Avenue — where the team recently visited for a group photo.

We’re excited to be part of another creative initiative that supports the incredible work of Havens Hospices.”

“Having supported Herd in the City and the Hares trail in previous years, we’re excited to be part of another creative initiative that supports the incredible work of Havens Hospices.

“Running throughout the summer, the trail invites everyone to get out, explore, and support a truly vital cause.”

Trail maps are available at Havens Hospices charity shops, the Pier Information Centre, The Forum, Leigh Library, The Royals Shopping Centre, and 141 Leigh Road.

There is also a dedicated Waddle-on-Sea app that can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play.

Picture courtesy of Havens Hospices.