A NEW lion-inspired piece of art hopes to bring pride to a Hampshire town.

Former Eastleigh MP Lord David Chidgey officially unveiled the new sculpture, commissioned by the Eastleigh Lions Club to commemorate the group’s 50th anniversary, at the Leigh Road recreation ground.

It is made from four sheets of iron that come together and when viewed from a certain angle form the image of a lion.

Words such as “community” and “fundraising” have been inscribed into the piece to reflect the ideals that the club cares about.

The project, done by Waterlooville firm ICEE, has been funded by the Lions and developer contributions.

The area will be known as Lions Speakers’ Corner.

Eastleigh mayor Tony Noyce and members of Eastleigh Lions were also present.