A STUNNING, majestic hare decorated by a celebrated artist before his death has made the journey from Southend to London and is now on display.

The sculpture, titled Leporum Fisher, was decorated by renowned Leigh artist Paul Karslake and is now sitting proud in Fenchurch Street station.

Mr Karslake passed away in March last year after a battle with Covid-19.

The artist had been a long-term supporter of the Echo-backed Hares about Town trail with his work set to take centre stage.

The sculpture was unveiled at Fenchurch Street by Paul’s wife Sandra Karslake, c2c representatives and the team at Havens Hospices.

Echo: All aboard - The hare jumps onto the train in SouthendAll aboard - The hare jumps onto the train in Southend

The hare will later join 29 other giant hares and more than 50 smaller sculptures, that will pop up in Southend this summer.

Louise Gloyne, from Havens Hospices, said: “We were delighted when the wonderful and talented Paul Karslake agreed to pioneer our Hares About Town campaign.

“With not only great support of the project but of course the design and creation of our launch hare ‘Leporum Fisher’ – Leporum being the Latin for ‘Hare’ and Fisher, as the design is of the Leigh-on-Sea fishing sunset.

“Paul, who was such a gentleman, had been a friend of Havens Hospices for many years, and his dedication to the charity will always hold such fondness in our hearts.

“We cherish our memories, and are thankful to be able to represent Pauls’ true talent.”

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Mr Karslake’s Leporum Fisher sculpture will be on display until June 25.

Clare McCaffrey, c2c commercial director, said: “We are delighted to be the presenting partner for Hares About Town in support of Havens Hospice.

“Joined by Havens Hospice and Paul Karslake’s wife, Sandra Karslake, we are honoured to have unveiled Leporum Fisher at Fenchurch Street station which was designed and painted by the talented late Paul Karslake. We are looking forward to welcoming visitors on board our trains to visit the trail from July 1 to enjoy some rather dashing hares.”