Auction of 30 lion sculptures at V&A on Friday

The event aims to raise awareness of the plight of the wild lion and raise funds to help the foundation protect the threatened species in the wild.

For the past two months, the Pride of Cape Town lion exhibition has been a prominent feature at the V&A Waterfront, where local and international visitors alike have enjoyed the colourful and unique lion statues.

One lion in particular has turned heads with its striking bubble design and mane made from Coca-Cola bottle tops - 'Buddy' is the creation of the third year students at AAA school of advertising and is sponsored by Peninsula Beverage Company (local bottlers of Coca-Cola Company products in the Western Cape). Along with the initial sponsorship of the lion, the company hopes to buy back the lion to contribute additional funds to The Born Free Foundation.

Niqui Smit, on consumption manager at PenBev comments, "We were inspired to get involved in the project as it fits perfectly with corporate initiative that aims to uplift the people and environment in which we operate. We're thrilled with the interest in the initiative so far and hope to reiterate our support by buying Buddy the lion."

For more, go to www.prideofcapetown.com and www.bornfree.org.uk.