A Shaun the Sheep sculpture will not return to an art trail after being damaged by vandals.

Shaun Le Sheep dazzled visitors outside the Royal Pavilion but was removed from the Shaun by the Sea art trail two weeks ago after being broken into pieces by yobs.

Hospice charity Martlets, who has organised the trail, has confirmed that the sculpture will not return to the trail before it ends on November 5.

The sculpture of the much-loved children’s character is undergoing an “incredible transformation” with a “newly-improved design” to ensure it is ready for auction in November.

Shaun Le Sheep, designed by Sara Pope, will appear at the art trail’s farewell event, which is taking place at The Brighton Centre from November 24 to November 26.

Claire Kidd, head of fundraising at Martlets, said: “We want to thank everyone who has come forward to support us over the last few weeks after we received significant damage to several of our sculptures.

“Although it is disappointing, people have come through with kind donations and offers of support.

“At Martlets, we care for people living through some of the toughest of times. No matter how tough, Martlets will be there to support our community in Brighton and Hove, the Deans and the Havens.

“It’s these values that we’ve taken to Shaun Le Sheep and we can’t wait to reveal more in the weeks to come.

“We’re excited for people to see it and potentially bid on it at our auction on November 27.”

Victoria King, marketing manager at Plus Accounting - the sponsor of Shaun Le Sheep, said: “We were saddened by the need for repairs, but we’ve been genuinely touched by the outpouring of support from our community.

“Martlets’ commitment to their cause is an inspiration to us all. We’re eager to see Shaun Le Sheep return in all its glory at the farewell event, and we’re excited to be part of this wonderful journey, together with our brilliant artist Sara Pope.”

Tickets to the farewell event, where all the Shaun the Sheep sculptures from the art trail will be on display, are available on the Shaun by the Sea website, costing £7.50 for adults and £3.50 for children.