Vandals have ripped the head off and irreparably damaged one of the 300 NHS tribute figures in South Park, Oxford.

The figures make up an art installation created by local community group Standing with Giants, which is raising funds to take the installation on tour nationally whilst also collecting for NHS Charities Together. 

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The installation has been created in support and recognition of those NHS staff who have died from Covid-19 whilst working in the frontline battling on our behalf.

Jules Gregory, a spokesperson for Standing with Giants, said: “We always knew the figures would be vulnerable by displaying them in an open public space, but the artist was insistent that they were made freely accessible to everyone - especially in this area which is surrounded by hospitals.

"There has been so much love and emotion from the visitors here that we wonder why on earth someone would want to hurt what is such a peaceful and reflective space."

The installation has taken just over three months to create by a team of dedicated Oxfordshire volunteers with materials donated by local companies.

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All other costs have been paid by the artist - including paying for night security in the park.

To donate to the Standing with Giants Just Giving page, go to justgiving.com.

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