A NEW art exhibition is attracting attention at Westquay after a herd of colourful elephants took over the shopping centre.

Since May 22, Westquay has been home to Elephant Parade, the world’s largest art exhibition of decorated elephant statues.

Founded in 2006, the art exhibitions are aimed at inspiring the communities they visit and raising awareness on elephant conservation.

This is the first time the elephants are on the South Coast and comes after a “landmark” London event in the summer of 2010.

Now, General Manager at Westquay, Laura Read has spoken of the success of the exhibition, adding that "it is great to see so many of our visitors engaging with the exhibition and searching for the elephants around the centre.

“The Elephant Parade's first week here at Westquay has been fantastic! The Parade is here for another three weeks and we look forward to welcoming more visitors to Westquay to learn more about elephant conservation."

Each elephant statue is designed by an artist from around the globe with each installation offering a series of facts about elephants and the artist behind the designs.

Shoppers are being encouraged to share elephant selfies using #WQelephantparade and by tagging @Westquay with the possibility of winning a bundle of prizes.

They are due to carry on being exhibited in Southampton until June 20.

The plinths which the elephants sit on have also been created by Southampton Wood Recycling Centre.

Miniature replicas of past and current elephant designs can also be purchased at the Elephant Parade international web store.