Shipley is set to get a new permanent resident in the form of a life-size sheep, who will have her own bench to sit on and a parasol to keep off the sun.

But, the new addition to the town won't be scaring off customers as it will be made of stone and sited in the Princess Diana Memorial planter, opposite Woolworths.

Internationally-renowned local artist Morwenna Catt has visualised the £12,000 art piece following a public consultation last year.

The comic scene will depict a ewe taking a breather on a bench, complete with a metal parasol.

Residents gave the thumbs-up for a piece of public art work to take pride of place in the town after the planter has stayed bare because of hungry pigeons.

And the majority of people wanted a sheep included as a nod to the meaning of Shipley which is "sheep meadow".

Now, Morwenna's vision will be on show for residents. Morwenna said: "After a consultation last year, I came up with three ideas which were exhibited in the library. People were very interested and it is very important to ensure they get what they want.

"The idea was finalised for a sheep and then the idea of a shopping sheep' came through. Shipley means sheep meadow' and then there is the town's links with mills and industry. People wanted the piece to be made of stone and the parasol will be metal.

"Hopefully, it is going to be something people can identify with and hopefully it will bring a bit of light-heartedness."

Funding has been secured by Shipley town centre manager Yvonne Crossley, who teamed up with Kirkgate Studios and Workshops. Community Arts Manager at Kirkgate Studios, Julia Charlton, said: "We are excited and proud to have an internationally-renowned and Bradford-based artist on board.

"We are hoping we get a positive response but if there is an overwhelming problem, we would of course respond to that or else there is no point.

"We are really excited to see a piece of work here that should brighten up the day for shoppers in Shipley."

Mrs Crossley said: "It will be a focal point for Shipley and will regenerate the planter.

"By going to consultation with members of the public and getting them involved with a piece of public art, they are taking ownership of this piece of land.

"We are trying to put back some civic pride into Shipley town centre."

Images of the "sheep shopper" will be on show at Shipley Library for two weeks from Monday.

  • Start or join a debate on this issue in our online forum - Click here