Vandals have decapitated a wooden peacock on a woodland sculpture trail.
The Into the Outwoods Sculpture Trail announced on their Facebook page that the sculpture, which was unveiled six weeks ago, had been damaged “beyond repair”.
The artwork by sculptor Lisa Denham, which is one of several in the woods near Loughborough , has now been removed.
The Facebook announcement on Friday stated: “Sadly the peacock by @lisadenhamart has been vandalised beyond repair. It was found Tuesday morning on the path and has now been taken away.”
Others on Facebook responding to the vandalism have expressed their anger.
One person wrote: “What enjoyment do these imbeciles get out of damaging or breaking these wonderful pieces of art that are dotted around the forest walk?”
One said: “Because they haven't the patience or talent to do such things themselves, they get jealous and destroy instead of creating.
“So sorry for the artists and those that won't get the chance to enjoy.”
Another wrote: “How terrible. That was my son’s favourite.
“What is wrong these pathetic individuals that they have to destroy a beautiful piece of artwork that has taken the artist so much love and time to make for us to enjoy?”
Others were trying to be more positive about what had happened.
One said: “It’s not the enjoyment of vandalism but the boredom of the person’s life. Often vandals are children or teenagers and at that age they require attention.”
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Another wrote: “I really enjoyed my visit to the woods that was enhanced by the works, the rangers and the cafe.
“Don't let the ignorant attacks put anyone off doing things to keep the spirit of the woods alive for everyone to enjoy.”
One person said: “It is terrible but let’s be positive. It has been there a few weeks and has given pleasure to 1,000s. There is more good in the world on balance.”
Less than two years ago there were a number of vandalism attacks on Ella Louise, a double decker bus converted into a cafe by Cathy Cliffe, who runs the Peppercorns cafe and catering business in Mountsorrel.
She also commented on the announcement, writing: “On behalf of all of the staff at Peppercorns bus cafe I would like to say how sorry I am to read this.
“The sculptures are an amazing asset to these beautiful woods and we will be sorry when you leave.
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“Unfortunately ourselves and the rangers were also victims of these delightful souls the same night so we share your pain.
“Please don’t let it deter you. We can’t let them beat us!”
