WORK to repair a 140-year-old statue that stood outside the Shirehall in Hereford before being damaged by vandals is progressing well.

The seven-foot bronze of former county MP Sir George Cromewall-Lewis, that was rocked until it fell to the ground, is being restored by a firm of specialists in Telford.

The Victorian statue received a severe dent to the head and bumps to the elbow and sleeve cuff when it was knocked from its pedestal.

"One of its main joints has also come apart," said Colin Birks, Herefordshire Council's property services manager.

Plinth

"The cost of the repairs will run into several thousand pounds.

"We think the statue will be ready to be put back on its plinth in around February next year.

"This time, however, it won't just be left to stand freely on top of its base - as was the custom when it was originally made.

"In those days they relied on its weight to keep it in place. This time we're going to use chemical bolts to ensure it is fixed firmly to its pedestal."

Before it goes back on public view the stature will be polished and lacquered.