Rushden pupil’s owl shines on Twycross Zoo Lantern Trail
Saul Francolini’s artwork spreads a message of conservation
A Rushden pupil is celebrating a glowing achievement after winning Twycross Zoo’s 2026 Lantern Design Competition.
Ten-year-old Saul Francolini, a pupil at Rushden Primary Academy, saw his hand-drawn owl design brought to life as a large 3D lantern, now proudly displayed along the zoo’s popular lantern trail.
Saul chose an owl because he finds them “majestic and smart,” and his artwork carried a thoughtful message about protecting the planet. His mum, Sarah, described the family’s delight:
“When he found out he had won, he was speechless, shocked and surprised. He put so much thought and effort into drawing and colouring. I especially liked the way he had written down the feathers and how to save the planet.”
The competition attracted 68 entries, all of which are now displayed on a gallery board at the trail’s entrance. Entries were first shortlisted by Twycross Zoo’s Education and Marketing teams, before a panel of Education Rangers selected the winner.
Judges assessed submissions on creativity, clarity, inspirational messaging, and the ability to encourage visitors to protect nature and wildlife. Saul’s owl impressed the panel with its strong conservation message and imaginative interpretation of the brief.
The winning artwork was scaled up from A4 to a striking 3D lantern by the specialist team at Inlight Festival, who spent two days bringing Saul’s design to life. The lantern is installed in the Gruffalo Wood section of the trail, where it will remain on display until the event closes on 22 February.
Saul enjoyed a special unveiling of his lantern, joined by his family and representatives from Twycross Zoo and Inlight Festival, making the moment a truly memorable celebration of young creativity and conservation.