A YOUNG artist who created a colourful caterpillar for the Dungloe River Walk has been left disappointed after her art went missing from the fairytale trail.
Sally the Caterpillar which was created by young artist Niamh O’Donnell has been removed from the popular river walk.
Niamh donated the piece to the riverwalk about eight months ago but parts of the colourful piece, which was created using multiple colourful stones, have gone missing in the past few days.
The piece was part of new attraction Trí na Draíochta or Land of Magic, a new children’s art and story trail at the Riverwalk in Dungloe.
Complete with a giant story book, fairies, giants, trolls, and even a magical bridge, the walkway is fast becoming a firm favourite for family days out.
The committee of the River Walk say this is not the first occasion that art has been removed from the area and said it is very disappointing.
A spokesperson for the riverwalk group said, “Niamh always puts so much work into each of her creations.
“She was very sad to find out that her caterpillar is missing. Shame on whoever took the stones.
“In the past, a few others kids’ project have been either damaged or disappeared completely. It’s not ok, as the wee kids feel sad and disappointed when they are coming back and their bits of art has been missing.
“In fact, Niamh together with her family are looking after all of the kids’ projects at the River Walk and in the past they have recovered, fixed and put back some doors. Two wee lads recovered Niamh’s Kindness Garden sign while another stone caterpillar and a snake vanished.
“It’s very disappointing for me as an adult so I can’t even imagine how kids are feeling. If you will spot any pieces of Sally the caterpillar please bring it to the Ladybug crossing sign.”
The committee has appealed for visitors to the area to enjoy the walk, but to leave the art alone.
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