Controversial dogs statue praised

One of the hounds was vandalised. Picture courtesy Falmouth Packet

Controversial sculptures - made from casts of tin miners' boots - have been praised by a panel judging an environmental award.

David Kemp used the metal shapes to create a cluster of dog-shaped sculptures to improve the look of the Redruth town centre in Cornwall.

The £30,000 hounds have been described by some people as ugly and one dog was attacked by vandals.

A rubber copy of the broken figure was in place when the judges visited.

Mayor John Haywood said he was delighted the judges had recognised the dogs' worth when they looked around in September.

The council has since been awarded a Town Centre Environment Award.

He said: "When the judges visited, the vandalised dog had been removed and a rubber one had been put there.

"Luckily the judges didn't notice, so we got away with that one."

He added: "While the judges were walking around the town there were children sitting on the hounds and clearly showing how they appreciate them."

He said the award was the result of hard work between Redruth Town Council, Kerrier District Council and the people of Redruth.