An appeal has been launched to track down the vandals who damaged a Shaun the Sheep sculpture on the launch day of an art trail.

The sculpture was said to have been “ripped from his base” and left in a road near the Pepper Pot tower in Queens Park, Brighton.

‘Bloom’ was one of 42 Shaun the Sheep sculptures scattered across Brighton and Hove as part of an art trail to raise money for hospice charity Martlets.

The sculpture is still away for repair, but is set to be reinstalled “very soon”.

Police are appealing for witnesses after officers came across the sculpture in the middle of the road.

A police spokeswoman said: “Around 5am on Saturday, September 9, police were driving on Queens Park Road, Brighton, when they came across a Shaun the Sheep sculpture in the middle of the road.

“The officers returned the sculpture to its base. The relevant parties are aware of the damage.

“Anyone who witnessed any suspicious behaviour in the vicinity of the sculpture around that time is asked to contact police online quoting serial 277 of 09/09.”

The art trail began on Saturday and lasts until November 5, when the sculptures will then be auctioned off to raise money for Martlets.

The last art trail in 2018 saw a number of snail sculptures auctioned off, raising more than £230,000 for the charity - with one selling for as much as £12,800.

Claire Kid, head of fundraising for Martlets, said: “We’re so excited to have the Shauns hit the streets 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 donate to the charity, visit shaunbythesea.co.uk/donate.