The vandalism of an Oor Wullie statue on Dundee’s popular Bucket Trail provoked outrage across the city.
But fans of Auchenshoogle’s most famous resident will be pleased to know repairs on the statue are nearly completed – after a special “Oor Wullie Hospital” was set up to provide emergency treatment.
The Spray Factory in Brewery Lane has been responsible for coating all statues on the Bucket Trail with resin so they can withstand the elements.
They have also been carrying out repairs to any statues that need maintenance while the Bucket Trail is in place.
Staff at the company posted a series of photos of their ad hoc Oor Wullie hospital on their Facebook page with Stewart Small acting as doctor.
The statue, designed by artist Pat Kelly, was found knocked off its bucket outside the Ardler Complex on Wednesday morning.
The incident provoked a storm of outrage online but the statue has made a full recovery and will soon be back on his plinth.
Archie Foundation director of fundraising Cassie Thompson said: “It is very disappointing when damage occurs, because these are all lovely works of art and are here for the benefit of everyone in Dundee and ultimately the children requiring operations in Tayside Children’s Hospital.
“However it is incredibly encouraging to see the community rallying around to eliminate these incidents, and to help make the repairs when required.
“Thanks to the skills of Stewart and the Spray Factory team and the artists, the sculptures really are like new when repaired, and we are extremely grateful to them.
“ I would appeal to the members of the public who are overwhelmingly supportive of the trail to help to spread the word – please treat Oor Wullie with the respect he deserves.
“After 80 years of putting Dundee on the map and now raising funds for local sick children, he’s a real star.”
The Ardler Oor Wullie was the second statue to be vandalised since the charity Bucket Trail, which is raising money for The Archie Foundation was launched.
A third statue, at the Hilltown, has also needed repairs after being vandalised.
Nearly 50,000 people have visited the Bucket Trail so far.
All the statues will be auctioned off in aid of The Archie Foundation once it closes.
The charity is raising money for a new operating suite at Tayside Children’s Hospital.
