A sculpture in a family friendly art trail that launched in a town centre today has been vandalised.

Elmer and his friends have brightened up Maidstone by standing proudly in their carefully selected spots – where they'll be for the next nine weeks – as part of Elmer's Big Heart of Kent Parade.

Some 51 uniquely designed elephant sculptures, decorated by local and national artists, have been scattered across the County Town forming three walks totalling around six miles.

The event will raise money for Heart of Kent Hospice in Aylesford.

However, organisers have shared the sad news that one of the elephants has already been vandalised.

A post on the Elmer's Big Heart of Kent Parade Twitter page this afternoon reads: "We’re sorry to say that Where’s Elmer isn’t looking his best this morning.

"Last night, after installation, he had his glasses broken.

"A new pair is coming in a few days.

"We’re sorry about this and ask everyone to love and be kind to our Elmers, they are here for the enjoyment of all."

Replying to the tweet, one charity supporter said: "Sad that someone gets pleasure destroying things that give others pleasure and raises awareness of the wonderful Heart of Kent Hospice.

"I hope they wake up today, feel guilty and make a donation to the hospice."

It is the first-ever public art trail of its kind to visit Maidstone and is based on one of the world's most famous children's book characters, Elmer the Patchwork Elephant, by David McKee.

To find out more about the event, click here.

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