A GIRAFFE from the Worcester Stands Tall project was damaged after England lost their World Cup semi final match against Croatia.

The giraffe, known as "Hive Mind" is stationed near The Hive and has been placed in a temporary pen whilst it is repaired.

In total, 57 giraffe sculptures were placed around the city raising funds for the St Richard’s Hospice's Build 2020 appeal and the rest of them were undamaged last night.

Sara Matthews, project manager of Worcester Stands Tall, said: “We are sorry to report that unfortunately one of our sculptures has been damaged. Our repair team is on the case and will have him fixed as soon as possible.

"Hive Mind’ is still on the trail and is visible, however he has been placed in a temporary pen while he is repaired. Thank you for your understanding.

“We would like to thank everyone for looking after all our other sculptures last night – and a huge thank you to the team at Ivydale Plant Ltd for protecting a number with temporary fencing, which has now been removed.

“All our giant giraffes are in aid of St Richard's Hospice Build 2020 Appeal to build a bigger hospice, allowing it to care for more patients and loved ones in the future. To find out more, or donate, visit www.strichards.org.uk/build2020

"Three brackets in the feet of the sculpture have been dislodged.

"There is no damage to his paintwork. He is currently cordoned off for the safety of the public and to avoid further damage.” 

After the football, West Midlands Ambulance saw a rise in the number of 999 calls by 15 percent compared to the same time the previous week with over 1100 calls received between 9.30pm and 4.30am.

Assistant chief ambulance officer, Nathan Hudson, who was in control of the Trust, said: “Almost immediately after the final whistle, the phone lines lit up.

“We were called to over 40 reports of assaults in the aftermath of the match. We also dealt with a number of serious RTCs and other drink related incidents with people falling over, drink fueled cases of bravado leading to injuries. Sadly, we also saw a number of cases of domestic violence."

West Mercia Police also reported a spike in the number of incidents.

They tweeted: "As already stated in the media this evening, we, like other Emergency Services are extremely busy at present.

"999 is for life and death emergencies, and there may be a slightly increased delay on answering 101 ,non emergency line.

"We have limited resources, please think before you call us."

The rise in incidents followed England's 2-1 extra time loss to Croatia as thousands of fans descended on the city centre to watch the game.