City 'Snook' sculptures vandalised for second time

One Snook, in St Sampson’s Square, was found with large cracks across the body

Sculptures created for a charity art trail in York have been temporarily removed after they were targeted by vandals for a second time.

Two of the sculptures were left with large cracks in incidents on 2 and 3 April, with vandals having been seen rocking back and forth on one of the so-called "Snooks".

One of the Snook sculptures was previously damaged after being "kicked, hit with force or climbed on" in March, according to tourist organisation Make It York.

The sculptures are due to be auctioned off later in support of St Leonard's Hospice and the York Creates Fund.

CCTV showed vandals rocking the Iron Snook, located at the Eye of York, Make It York said

CCTV footage revealed the sculpture known as the Iron Snook, located at the Eye of York, was targeted by a group of five people rocking the sculpture until it hit the ground, causing damage.

The group also toppled several picnic benches provided by York BID.

Meanwhile, a second sculpture, known as the Yorky Roasty Snooky sculpture, located at St Sampson’s Square, was found with large cracks across the body.

Make it York apologised for any inconvenience caused to those visiting the city to walk the trail.

Sarah Loftus, the company's managing director, said: "We are deeply saddened by these acts of vandalism.

"Defacement is not only an act of vandalism, but an assault on our city’s culture and the good cause of the project long term.”

'Senseless vandalism'

The sculptures have been temporarily repaired, and signage and barriers have been put in place to minimise further damage and safety to visitors.

James Wainwright, head of fundraising at St Leonard’s Hospice said: “This senseless act of vandalism could mean we have fewer sculptures for the fundraising auction at York Barbican on 9 May.”

Each character on the trail, which was launched at the start of March, is sponsored by a business or organisation based in the city.

The Snooks were created by illustrator and mural artist Sian Ellis, who is Sheffield-based and has worked on many charity sculpture trails across the UK.