A sculpture of the Lincoln Imp has been targeted by vandals

Its head has been removed

Damaged Imp
Author: Julie CastonPublished 21st Jul 2021
Last updated 21st Jul 2021

One of the Imps involved in Imp trail has been targeted by vandals who've removed Its head. Owners St Barnabas Hospice fear the damage could be irreparable.

It was due to be auctioned to raise awareness and funding for the charity.

A man's now been arrested, Police are questioning a man in his 20s on suspicion of criminal damage.

What have St Barnabas Hospice said?

The Community Imp has been damaged, which is devastating news for all involved in the Trail. This particular imp was designed by a local school child from Gonerby Hill Foot Church of England Primary School, which makes the vandalism all the more heart-breaking.

As charity partner for the Lincoln Imp Trail, this will impact us financially, particularly whilst the imp is removed from the Trail for repairs. Each imp is a donation point, meaning supporters can scan a QR code and give to the Hospice as they complete the Trail.

Chris Wheway, Chief Executive at St Barnabas Hospice said, “I am shocked to see the vandalism of the Community Imp in Lincoln city centre. This is disappointing for the child who has designed it, the artist (Sian Bristow) and Trail organisers (Lincoln BIG). We hope the damage made to this imp can be repaired, as in these difficult times we are reliant on this vital fundraising.

The Imp before the damage

“As the trail’s charity partner, any funds raised from the Trail will go directly to St Barnabas Hospice to support the people of Lincolnshire with life-limiting or terminal illnesses. We are hopeful that this will be a one-off incident and that people continue to give generously to help our vulnerable patients as they complete the Trail.”

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