THREE more Hampshire Hogs have been removed from the public art trail after they were vandalised.

Seventeen life-sized hogs designed and painted by local artists went on display across Basingstoke in August for the public to enjoy, before they will be auctioned off for charity in October.

However, four of the hogs have since been removed from the trail after being damaged, with three removed from their plinths by vandals.

As previously reported, artist Jillian Smith, who created a nature inspired hog called Sylvester, was disappointed after it was ripped off its plinth near the fountains by Eastrop Park and thrown onto the grass.

It was relocated to inside The Willis Museum at the Top of Town to keep it safe.

Now, two other hogs in War Memorial Park and Eastrop Park have joined it there after they too were taken off their plinths.

A fourth hog, which was in Festival Square, was also removed from the trail last week and is being repaired.

It is expected that it will also be relocated to The Willis Museum.

The Hampshire Hogs trail was launched by Destination Basingstoke, with the sculptures all designed and painted by local artists representing aspects of life, heritage, culture, and countryside in Hampshire.

Destination Basingstoke’s managing director Felicity Edwards said: “Obviously it is very disappointing after all the incredible efforts of the artists and for all the many partners and sponsors involved with the project.

“However, the enjoyment and positivity that the hogs have generated over the weeks has been phenomenal.”

There are still 13 other hogs on display for the public to find, either by chance or by downloading an app.

The three at The Willis Museum can also be seen during its opening hours from Wednesday to Sunday between 10am and 2pm.