Shaun the Sheep sculpture ‘ripped from base’ and left in road on art trail launch day

The sculpture was said to be “ripped from his base” and left in the road near the Pepper Pot tower in Queen’s Park, Brighton.

The artist Faye Bridgwater who designed him said it was “gutting” that someone had decided to damage the sculpture.

Martlets hospice said it had to be taken away for repairs but will be installed back in Brighton’s fun new trail “very soon”.

Faye posted on her Instagram that she was aware of the vandalism on Saturday morning.

She said: “Bit of a sad face here this morning. I have woken up to a message saying my Shaun the Sheep has been ripped from his base and placed in the middle of the road. Gutting.

“The police have placed him back on the plinth but he’s not secure. I just assume the people that do these things don’t know it’s for a charity raising much needed funds.”

Bloom is one of 42 sculptures put up around the city to support the Martlets Hospice.

The art trail started on Saturday and lasts until November 5 and the sculptures will then be auctioned off.

Claire Kidd, head of fundraising for Martlets, said: “We’re so excited to have the Shauns hit the street and we are grateful to everyone who is enjoying visiting them and helping us keep them in tip top shape.

“Bloom has had to go away for a couple of repairs but will be back on the trail very soon. If you would like to help Bloom return – and keep Martlets caring – please consider a donation to our page Donate – Shaun by the Sea.”

The snail sculptures from the 2018 art trail raised more than £230,000 for the hospice charity, with one selling for as much as £12,800.

To donate to the charity, visit shaunbythesea.co.uk/donate.