A towering splash of pink and blue has bounded into the heart of Shrewsbury, as a giant rabbit statue takes pride of place in The Square, not far from the historic figure of Robert Clive.
The cheerful newcomer has quickly become the centrepiece of a lively Easter-themed trail designed to draw families into the town.
The seasonal attraction is the result of a collaboration led by Shrewsbury BID, who brought the colourful sculpture to life. Adding to the sense of playful intrigue, Swan Hill Studios is crafting a series of oversized letters scattered across local businesses, each one forming part of the bunny’s hidden name.
At its heart, the trail is less about the destination and more about the journey. Families are invited to wander through Shrewsbury’s winding streets, collecting clues and uncovering letters tucked away in shop windows and doorways. It is a gentle nudge to rediscover the town’s independent spirit, with a dash of springtime adventure thrown in for good measure.
Project lead Emma Molyneux said the initiative was designed to bring people together and encourage exploration, with early reactions suggesting the idea has already struck a chord. The giant rabbit, she noted, has proven an instant hit, delighting passers-by and posing patiently for countless photos.
The trail runs until 12 April, with participants tasked with finding nine hidden letters to unlock the bunny’s name. Those who crack the code will be entered into a prize draw, with three winners each receiving £50 vouchers to spend locally.
Maps for the trail are available from the Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery, as well as from participating businesses dotted across the town centre.
And the festivities do not stop there. As part of the wider celebration, Swan Hill Studios will host a free spring-themed craft day on Tuesday 31 March, offering a hands-on way for families to embrace the season.
In a town steeped in history, it seems a giant pastel rabbit has found a way to steal the spotlight, if only for a few bright and breezy weeks.
