GRAFFITI has been removed from a community art trail in Penistone after ‘mean-spirited’ vandals defaced the work last year.
Michael Disley’s 11 sheep sculptures - which were installed across the area in November after a two-year project - were targeted over the Christmas period and several were daubed with spray paint.
The graffiti has now been removed, but Barnsley Council bosses are urging the public to report acts of vandalism as soon as possible after ‘significant’ damage to the sculpture outside Penistone Church Football Club was made without it being reported to the local authority.
Coun Wendy Cain, cabinet spokesperson for public health and communities, said: “I was appalled to learn that some of the Penistone Sheep had been vandalised.
“It’s a real shame these sculptures have attacked by mean-spirited vandals in this way, and I’m pleased our graffiti removal officers have moved quickly to restore them to their full glory.
“We appreciate the effort of some residents to clean paint off the sheep and a visitors’ map that was vandalised.
“The reception to this fun art trail has been overwhelmingly positive and the community of Penistone have taken the woolly newcomers to their hearts since they arrived last November.
“I’d encourage everyone to visit Penistone to find the sheep for themselves and see what else the town has to offer.”
You can report offensive or significant graffiti on the Barnsley Council website.
