THERE has been a big reaction to the news damaged giraffe statues have been removed from a city centre art trail, which is raising money for charity.

The Worcester News reported that a giraffe, known as Dotty and designed by schoolchildren for the Worcester Stands Tall trail, was used as a battering ram to break into Two Seasons store on Monday.

And it later emerged a second giraffe, Giraffic Park that stood in Cripplegate Park, was broken from its plinth between 3pm on Sunday, and 9am on Monday.

Police are investigating both incidents and officers arrested a man in his 20s on suspicion of burglary in relation to the Crowngate incident. He was held in custody.

St Richard’s Hospice, which organised the charity trail to raise money for its Build 2020 appeal to extend its premises, later said both would be fully repaired, but will not return to the trail.

The sculptures will now be on show at a farewell event being held at Worcester Cathedral taking place between October 4 to 7, after the trail finishes on September 16.

Commenting on the Two Seasons burglary, Sara Matthews, project manager for Worcester Stands Tall, said: “We are very disappointed by this incident, we are supporting the police with their investigation.

“The giraffes are intended to bring fun and enjoyment to the city and its visitors. We have been overwhelmed by the positive response so far. We really don’t want this incident to spoil the wonderful trail, which has been enjoyed by thousands of people over the summer.”

Worcester News readers flooded our website and social media with angry comments on the incidents.

Karen Costantinou said: “What was the point in this.

"A lot of heartache for something senseless like this.”

Steve Beston said: “Makes me very angry a lot of time and effort has gone into creating these giraffes. All the calves were designed by school children.”

Chris Waldron said: “What is wrong with people these days get a life stop spoiling things for others.

Janis Searle said: “Feel ashamed to live in Worcester,” while Pennie Malone added: “So much care was put into making it - I lost faith in humanity long ago.”