THE wait is finally over! Today marks the start of the hotly anticipated Marwell Zany Zebra trail.

Visitors have started be stampeding their way through Southampton in the search for the sculptures which are dotted around the city centre.

View details of our Zany Zebras photo competition >>

Thousands are expected to join in the free fun trail in a bid to find the 47 life-sized zebra sculptures. By using the trail guide below, you can navigate your way around Southampton to find the sculptures along with 103 smaller models which are hidden in shops and businesses.

Those taking part in the trail can also download an app that can be used on smart phones to help track down the sculptures. Available on both iPhone and Android devices, the app also calculates how many steps have been taken by those tracking the zebras whilst users can also win virtual awards for the number of steps take and sculptures found.

The free app is available on Google Play and the App Store, just search 'Marwell's Zany Zebras'.

Along with providing a free fun activity for visitors and families, the trail is also aimed at raising awareness of the plight of the Grevy's zebra breed. At the end of the trail the sculptures will be auctioned off with money raised going towards conservation projects undertaken by Marwell Wildlife with organisations in Kenya.

Today the Daily Echo is also launching its own competition to find the best picture of people enjoying the Marwell Zany Zebra trail. We want to see pictures of you with your favourite zebra sculpture and the best one will win a prize.

Entries will appear in a special supplement with the public asked to vote for their favourite. The winning snap will win a family ticket for entry to Marwell Zoo.

Please remember not to climb on the sculptures or sit on the artwork as it risks damaging them. Any photos submitted showing people on the zebras will be disqualified from the competition.

Simply fill out a form at dailyecho.co.uk/zebras and submit the photo to us and your details by following the instructions.

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