Visitors to the Rotherham Show were treated to a close-up look at our launch lion Dandylion and our cub painted by artist Sian Ellis. Both quickly became favourites with families and show-goers, with plenty of selfies and questions about the trail.

Lions roam the show

Crowds enjoyed a packed programme including:

• High-wire acts from The Great Bullzini
• Strongmen competitions, the Companion Dog Show and Vintage Vehicle Display
• Comedy in the Chuckle Tent and roaming street theatre
• Loser’s Arcade with retro games
• The Made in Rotherham Horticultural Show and the Children’s Capital of Culture showcase
• A giant Snakes and Ladders installation by Yorkshire artist James Brunt
• Stalls, street food and handmade crafts

Amid all this activity, lots of crafty kids joined us to design their own lions and lionesses and make fabulous lion masks. Dandylion and our cub sparked hundreds of conversations about Pride of Yorkshire, the schools and businesses involved, and the 150 lions and 150 cubs that will roar to life across South Yorkshire in summer 2026.

Getting creative and sparking conversations

Rachel Braund, who leads Social Media for Pride of Yorkshire, said the show was the perfect opportunity to connect with the people who’ll love next year’s trail:

“It was such a brilliant event! Everyone swooned over our lions and were keen to find out when they’ll be hitting the streets . It was lovely to chat to children and hear what designs they’d like to see – and also see them deep in concentration mode making their own masks!”

A roar of thanks

We were blown away by the enthusiasm and warm welcome from Rotherham residents and visitors alike. A huge thank you to the organisers for hosting us – and to everyone who came along to meet Dandylion and our cub.

A special thanks also goes to a brilliant team of volunteers, who helped us set up the stall and spread the word. Dina is a student and spent her first day with the charity on Saturday. She said:

“I really enjoyed attending this event and meeting everyone. It was lovely to help support such an important cause.”

If you’re interested in volunteering with the Pride of Yorkshire team, head here to let us know!

Did you visit us during Rotherham Show 2025? Be sure to tag us in your pictures on Instagram at @prideofyorkshiretrail and use the hashtag #PrideOfYorkshire.

Our roarsome fundraising goals

Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity has set an ambitious £2.8 million fundraising target for the Pride of Yorkshire campaign, with funds raised earmarked to support cutting-edge research, vital new equipment and creative therapeutic projects for young patients.

---

Pride of Yorkshire will run from June 2026 – September 2026 across South Yorkshire. Watch this space for more information, how to get involved and support and for artists announcements on our website.

---