Marlborough Highways are proud to be sponsoring Waddle on Sea – the latest Southend art trail organised by Wild in Art.
Over 100 penguin statues have been beautifully painted and hidden across the area, all to raise money for Havens Hospices – a local charity providing specialist support to people living with incurable conditions, as well as their families.
The design we chose, titled Wonder, perfectly embodies our drive to be bold — and the bright, progressive future we’re working hard to achieve across every community we serve.
Marlborough have a long history of serving the Southend community both on and off the worksite, and this event is no exception. Alongside our initial sponsorship pledge, we’ve organised our very own team fundraising challenge, helping us raise even more money for this important cause.
On Saturday, 19th July, 12 members of the Marlborough team will take part in the ‘Ultimate Penguin Trek’, a meaningful way for our colleagues to come together, show their support, and help ensure Havens Hospices can continue delivering vital services in the community.
Vanessa Harvey, Project Manager for Havens Hospices, said: “We are so excited at the thought of a parade of penguins standing amongst Southend-on-Sea’s iconic attractions, bringing colour and fun to the city in the summer of 2025.”
“Waddle-on-Sea will offer everyone a great day out, exploring parts of the city they may not have visited before, as well as raising thousands of pounds for the free, specialist hospice care Havens Hospices provides for local adults, children, and their families.”
As the trail comes to an end in early September, Marlborough’s sponsored penguin will then be auctioned off to the highest bidder. With all proceeds going directly to Fair Havens and Little Havens, this final gesture will help ensure these vital organisations can continue providing life-changing care long into the future.
Marlborough Highways’ Managing Director, Matthew Revell, added: “It’s a real privilege to support Waddle on Sea as a sponsor. The statues this year are incredible, and will certainly bring interest to both Southend and the important work Havens Hospices carry out in the local community every day. We’re committed to bringing positive change to the area, and this event is just another way we’re making good on that promise.”
If you’d like to learn more about Waddle on Sea or get involved yourself, visit their website.