Bridport’s damaged stalking dog sculpture removed for repairs

A popular sculpture of a dog has been removed for repairs, to allow a replica to be cast.

Stalking Dog, by Greta Berlin, was installed outside Palmers Brewery as part of Bridport's sculpture trail but corrosion has made it unsafe.

Campaigners successfully raised more than £6,000 to get it recast in resin so it can remain in the Dorset town.

Bridport Town Council said the artwork was removed on Thursday morning and was being returned to the artist for “recuperation”.

The dog was based on Greta Berlin's family pet, Queenie, and is one of several of her works displayed in Bridport.

Cleo Evans – curator of the art trail – and author Ros Huxley set up the crowdfunder, with the support of the sculptor and local businesses.

Town clerk Will Austin said: “Having established herself as one of the most loved sights in Bridport, Queenie's materials have aged to a point where she is no longer able to be displayed in a public outdoor location.

“We have agreed with the artist, Greta Berlin, that she should be returned to her for her future care and recuperation.

“In return Greta has kindly agreed that a resin-cast replica can be made and displayed so that Queenie isn't lost to the community.”

Once the artist's repairs are complete, a specialist mould maker will cast a fresh version of the artwork, with the process expected to take several months.

Mr Austin said: “We are grateful to Cleo and Ros for their work in raising the funds to take this forward, and delighted at the community support shown in reaching the funding target.”