Prickwillow Village Phone Box Transformed into Giant Penguin for Annual Christmas Tradition

A disused phone box in a Fenland village has been transformed into a large penguin, continuing what has become an annual Christmas custom. This vibrant red phone box in Prickwillow, Cambridgeshire, has been decorated for the festive period every year since 2011, following its purchase from BT for £1. While members of the Ouse Life Drawing Group contribute to the decorating effort, local artist and sculptor Cary Outis is typically responsible for the designs. Past creations have featured Santas, reindeer, a large Christmas gift, and a sleigh depicted as being stuck in a chimney. The creation of this year’s substantial penguin required approximately three days of sewing by Mr. Outis. It is constructed from fabric and reinforced with wooden supports. “Every year I think I’m running out of ideas, and then something pops into my head,” said Mr Outis. He acknowledged that the penguin, with its fabric, stuffing, and structural supports, presented a considerable challenge. He further commented, “I had to work out how to sew the head on to the shoulders and to be honest, I’m not very good at sewing.” The penguin is displayed holding a sign that states: “I’m so confused.” Mr Outis explained, “The world seems like it’s turned a bit upside down at the moment – so I wrote that, as our penguin is in the northern hemisphere instead of the southern – where it belongs.” He added, “But people can interpret it as they like and take it as a flippant comment if they want to.” This annual tradition of decorating the phone box consistently brings joy to both residents and visitors. Since the penguin’s installation on Tuesday, Mr. Outis reported receiving “lots of very nice” comments, noting that local children were “laughing out loud” upon seeing it. Follow Cambridgeshire news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.