Mini penguins have been spotted around Hampshire, including Andover, causing 'concern of an invasion'.

The small coloured penguins have been spotted in locations around Basingstoke, Winchester and Andover with residents questioning where they’ve come from.  

Sabrina Marsden, fundraising manager at Hampshire Hospitals Charity, explained that the penguins have been placed around the county as part of a fundraising challenge.

She said: “Our giant penguins have been running a mock in the local area recently and have been dropping mini penguins in their wake. We’re hoping to find them all though and we’ll be offering a reward to anyone who finds one.”

The charity is hosting The Big Penguin Challenge in Wellington Country Park on Saturday, November 9, and anyone who finds one of the mini penguins can scan the accompanying QR code to claim free entry.

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The event will see participants dress in penguin onesies and take on a giant inflatable obstacle course full of slides, foam pits and more. 

“We’re really excited to be able to offer this event as an adults only day out,” Sabrina said.

“It’s a perfect way to get together with a group of friends, your sports team, your book club or as a couple and help raise money to fund important projects at your local hospital.”

Tickets are available from just £20 with a commitment to raise funds for Hampshire Hospitals Charity.

Full details of the event and ways to get involved can be found at hampshirehospitalscharity.org.