A gang have been caught on CCTV damaging one of the Snook sculptures in York city centre.
The footage shows a group of five people rocking the sculpture back and forth and eventually knocking it to the ground, causing significant damage. It happened late on Tuesday evening (2 April).
Named the Iron Snook, it is located at the Eye Of York. The figure forms part of this spring’s Make It York character trail, and was left with large cracks, which have now been patched up with tape.
The Iron Snook, sponsored by the York BID and designed by artist Leonie Briggs, was not the only figure damaged. The York Roasty Snooky in St Sampson’s Square was also found cracked.
It is sponsored by The York Roast Co and designed by Norse Sky and Gemma Wood.
This follows previous damage to the characters. The Snook in the Coppergate Centre was split down the middle and the one in Parliament Street was damaged soon after the trail was launched.
‘Deeply saddened’
The trail is a community initiative in partnership with charity St Leonard’s Hospice and a free, family friendly activity for residents and visitors.
“We are deeply saddened by these acts of vandalism,” said Sarah Loftus, managing director of Make It York. “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.”
After the trail has ended, the sculptures will be auctioned in a charity event to raise funds for both St Leonard’s Hospice and the York Creates Fund, a micro-fund that supports cultural and creative activity in the city.
James Wainwright, head of fundraising at St Leonard’s Hospice says: “The Snooks trail is a fun and creative way for residents and visitors to explore the city, but it’s also a way for St Leonard’s Hospice to raise the vital funds we need as a charity.
“This senseless act of vandalism could mean we have fewer sculptures for the fundraising auction at York Barbican on 9 May.”
Unfortunately, the vandalism did not stop at the Snook sculptures. The group caught on CCTV continued to topple over several picnic benches provided by York BID. These benches provide residents and visitors with a place to relax and socialise.
“We are extremely disappointed to learn of the acts of vandalism on The Iron Snook and our picnic benches.” said Millie Douce, marketing & communications executive at York BID.
“York has a proud heritage and an enriching cultural scene, with no place for such inconsiderate behaviour.
“We hope residents and visitors to the city continue to enjoy the Snook Trail and picnic benches during the warmer spring months and support the incredible work of St Leonard’s Hospice.”
If you know any information about who damaged the Snooks, please contact North Yorkshire Police on 101. Seen any other damage to the sculptures? Call Make It York on 01904 555670.