One of York’s nutcracker statues has been thrown into the river, apparently by two boys.
The team at York BID, who organise the nutcracker trail, were alerted by the public that their Middletons Hotel figure was sailing through the city last night (Sunday).
York photographer Alasdair McIntosh took these pictures of the figure near Ouse Bridge.
He said: “Two young lads, approximately 12 years old, pinched the Nutcracker from Middletons Hotel and threw it in the river at about 7pm Sunday.
“Unfortunately they ran and cycled off before I got close to them.”
He shared the incident on Facebook, causing quite a stir in the comments.
One angry reader commented, “Just what’s the matter with the young of today, such mindless acts.”
Another said, “I’m lost for words, why do this!”
Happily, after a night on the Ouse, the Nutcracker was found this morning lodged at the edge of the river.
With the help of York residents, the Street Rangers, and a street cleaner, the statue was rescued during the early hours of this morning.
He was then dried off and returned home to Middletons Hotel.
York BID have reported the incident to the police and are appealing for witnesses.
Project manager at York BID Rachel Bean told YorkMix: “We’re so grateful to everyone who helped, from those who alerted us, to our vigilant Street Rangers, and especially street cleaner Chris, who ensured his safe rescue and gave him the care he needed to shine once more.
“This was a real community effort that shows what our city is really all about. After a good drying off, he’s ready to welcome visitors again on the York Nutcracker Trail.”
Sadly, this isn’t the first time the statues have been manhandled this year.
Last month, we reported that Barley Hall’s Nutcracker was stolen, only to be found dumped wrapped in plastic bags and a fluffy blanket.
Two similar incident also occurred back in 2022, when one of the Nutcrackers had to be rescued from the River Foss, and another was stolen and needed to be replaced.
The 2024 trail launched on 14 November and is in partnership with local artist Marc Godfrey-Murphy.
This year’s theme, Christmas Around the World, celebrates unique and diverse communities that make our city.
To find out more about the Nutcrackers dotted around the city, click here.