'Child in the Park' statue stolen again from Billericay park

Councillor for Billericay East, Andrew Schrader, confirmed the 24-year-old "Child in the Park" statue in Lake Meadows appeared to have been stolen over the weekend.

Mr Schrader called the theft an “outrage” and added he hoped the thieves “grow a conscience” and return the sculpture.

He said: “Really sad that, not for the first time, the iconic statue of ‘Child in the Park’ in Lake Meadows has been stolen.

“The theft appears to have occurred some time on Sunday night.

Taken - the Child in the Park statue (Image: File photo)

“The statue was installed more 20 years ago and has become a much loved and admired feature of the park for an entire generation, particularly the children who visit the little garden in which the statue is located.

“This theft is an outrage. Previously, the statue was stolen but subsequently returned.

“I hope the thieves in this instance similarly grow a conscience and return this beloved piece of public art for the people of Billericay to continue to enjoy.”

He also encouraged anyone with information to contact Essex Police or Basildon Council to help with efforts to locate the statue.

The statue, which has remained a fixture of the park since it was designed in 2020 by artist John Doubleday, was previously been stolen in 2017.

It is believed it was taken from its pedestal and removed using a truck at the time due to its weight. The statue was discovered in Brentwood three months after its disappearance to the delight of the community.

Councillor for Billericay East, Andy Barnes, said: "It's very disappointing news and we are hoping they can recover it quickly.

"It's a very popular local landmark. For that reason, for it to be taken again, is a big blow.

"We need to take steps to stop it happening again. We need to ensure that we do not lose it for a third time."