A TEAM of lawyers are the latest to join the herd as a stampede of colourful creatures are set to arrive in Southampton.

Marwell Zoo is preparing to release its Zany Zebras into the city as part of a Daily Echo-backed sculpture trail.

The latest firm to get behind the event is Coffin Mew Solicitors, which has sponsored a stripy sculpture which will be painted by one of the region’s artists.

It follows the success of the zoo’s Go! Rhinos art extravaganza, which saw thousands visit Southampton during a ten-week trail in 2013.

The law firm, which has offices in Southampton, Gosport and Portsmouth, joins other businesses and organisations that have already got involved, including Southampton City Council and Marlands Shopping Centre.

Miles Brown, managing partner at Coffin Mew, said: “This initiative has gone from strength to strength and we are delighted to be a sponsor once again following the success of the Go! Rhinos campaign. Marwell's Zany Zebras promises to capture hearts and minds in the local community.”

The much-anticipated trail will hit city streets and gardens in the summer of next year.

Kirstie Mathieson, project manager for Marwell’s Zany Zebras, said: “Coffin Mew had such fun with Go! Rhinos that they couldn’t wait to support our latest project – in fact they were so keen they signed before we announced what the sculpture would be!

“Delighted to have them on board again and we look forward to working with the team on Marwell’s Zany Zebras.”

The animal was chosen because Marwell has strong links to the grevy zebra, for which it coordinates the international breeding programme for the breed in captivity.

The zebras will later be auctioned off to raise money for conservation work in northern Kenya.

There is still time to sponsor a sculpture. Visit zanyzebras. org.uk/sponsors.