Gardai are appealing again for anyone with information over the theft and destruction of a prominent detailed statue dedicated to teachers in a Co Waterford village.
The statue dedicated to primary school teachers in the picturesque sea-side village of Stradbally was damaged and stolen sometime between Monday, January 8th and Thursday, January 11th last.
Four of the five statues were removed from the site, one of a young boy which was badly damaged.
The much-loved statue was a prominent feature on an approach road to the village, which is situated along Waterford’s copper coast.
The piece that had been located on Flower Hill had become a popular focal point in Stradbally and has been praised by Tidy Towns judges.
The statue was commissioned by the owner of the Woodhouse Estate, Jim Thompson, as a tribute to the village's teachers and musicians.
In a statement from Garda headquarters said they “are investigating a theft that occurred at a premises in Stradbally, Co Waterford sometime between the 8th and 11th January.”
Garda investigations are ongoing and are appealing once again for anyone with information to come forward.
A spokesperson for Woodhouse Estate explained that they are “very upset” that the “beautiful statue” has been stolen.
“This statue was commissioned by Jim Thompson, owner of Woodhouse Estate, to pay tribute to the teachers and musicians of the village and surrounding area, and it was a focal point on flower hill.
"We cannot express how disappointed we are that someone would steal this beautiful piece of art," the spokesperson said.
“This has been reported to the Gardaí and if anybody saw anything suspicious recently and particularly on the night of 10th January we would really appreciate it if you could get in touch”.
Anyone who may have information should contact Tramore Gardaí on 051 391620 or the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.
The original Woodhouse Estate house was built in the early part of the 17th century by the Fitzgerald family (a branch of the MacThomas Geraldines of the Decies).
While in the ownership of the Uniacke family, it was passed by inheritance to the Beresford family and subsequently sold by Lord William Beresford in ca 1970.
The House has since been extended over the years to become a six-bay window residence with bright and spacious rooms overlooking this private estate with the River Tay flowing through it.
