Two days before the official launch of Gromit Unleashed, one of the sculptures was damaged with its tail completely removed by vandals.

Poetry In Motion on College Green was designed by actress Joanna Lumley, with lines of poetry painted across the sculpture.

In a statement, Gromit Unleashed organisers said: “We’re very sorry to say that late Friday night, one of our Gromit Unleashed sculptures was damaged. We have been in touch with the artist and are working on restoring him.

“We are dismayed that anyone would want to damage one of the Gromit sculptures which have been created to raise money to treat sick children in hospital and to provide something for everyone in Bristol to enjoy.

“We have reported this to the police and are currently assessing the damage to the sculpture.”