Sneak preview of new foxes being created for a new trail in Portsmouth

A first look has been shared of new sculptures which will be arriving at Foxes Forest next spring.

Local artist Midge is creating 18 wooden sculptures of a fox family was chosen to create the characters for a new family-friendly trail through Portsmouth’s island woodland in Hilsea. And today, a sneak preview has been given to mark National Fox Day (September 17).

Three characters will appear six times along the trail, and are being handcrafted by chainsaw artist Chris Bain, who is carefully carving each fox from sustainably sourced oak. With every sculpture taking around 40 to 50 hours to create, the project is a real labour of love and showcases the skill and craftsmanship involved in bringing the designs to life.

When complete, the trail will offer a fun and engaging way for families to explore Foxes Forest, discover more about the area’s wildlife and history, and enjoy one of Portsmouth’s most unique green spaces.

Although the sculptures won’t be installed until spring 2027, work is already well underway, with Midge’s designs chosen from among a number submitted by artists to Portsmouth City Council.

The sculpture trail is part of a wider programme of improvements carried out along Portsmouth’s northern shoreline by the council. The North Portsea Coastal Scheme continues to make good progress, with teams currently delivering the final phase of new sea defences between Anchorage Park and Tipner.

Alongside the coastal scheme, the historic Hilsea Lines have benefited from improvements to the moat, helping to improve water quality and support the area’s wildlife and ecology. The reopening of Hilsea Lido has also helped establish the area as a destination for recreation, nature and outdoor activities.

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