Waddle of Worcester penguin deliberately damaged by vandals

A barrier has now been placed around the steampunk Great Waddle of Worcester penguin, otherwise known as Dr Waddlecog of Worcester, after it had several parts of its rocket pack and torso intentionally damaged.

The penguin has been intentionally damaged. (Image: Newsquest)

It comes after two penguins had to be removed from the trail because they were intentionally damaged, and two others were removed due to "wear and tear".

The torso of the penguin has been targeted by vandals. (Image: Newsquest) Great Waddle of Worcester has asked anyone with information or who may have seen vandals damaging Dr Waddlecog of Worcester to contact West Mercia Police.

A spokesperson said: "If you are waddling with us today you will see that Dr Waddlecog of Worcester has had to be barriered off.

"Sadly, his rocket pack and torso have been deliberately damaged, and the police are investigating.

Part of the penguin's jet pack is coming off. (Image: Newsquest) "We hope we can avoid taking this penguin off the trail, but we need to ensure he's protected from further damage while we form our repair plan.

"We run these trails as a thank you to our amazing local community who give so much to us at St Richard's Hospice.

"Trails also provide much-needed funds for our care, funds which we now need to divert to cover repair bills.

"If anyone has specific information about the damage caused to this sculpture, please call 101 or contact West Mercia Police online using the following crime reference number: 22/64532/24"

The team also thanked the vast majority of people who are enjoying making memories with the huddle and who are keeping their protection in mind.

The Great Waddle of Worcester trail is run by St Richards Hospice and it aims to raise important funds for the charity and awareness of its work.

But, it costs the hospice hundreds of pounds to mend each damaged penguin.

The incidents have led to Penguin Patrol being set up to show children how to enjoy the statues without damaging them.

The Waddle of Worcester estimates the 80 sculptures spread across the city have been logged on the app about 10,000 times daily since launch.