A NEW attraction at a North-East heritage site is set to hog the limelight.

A boar sculpture has been unveiled in the grounds of the 151 acre medieval deer park at Auckland Castle, Bishop Auckland.

The work has been specially commissioned by the Auckland Castle Trust in honour of the property’s furry mascot, Bosley Boar, whose ancestor is said to have been an enormous and ferocious wild pig that terrorised the area in the Middle Ages.

Made from galvanised wire, it is the work of North Yorkshire-based sculptor Emma Stothard.

Her work has found homes in many well-known locations, including Highgrove House where a large scale sculpture of HRH Prince of Wales’ beloved Jack Russell dog, Tigga, made from willow grown on the Gloucestershire estate, stands in the garden.

Grace English, Auckland Castle’s education and outreach officer, said: “We’re thrilled that Auckland Castle is now home to one of Emma’s amazing pieces.

“It’s a fitting and very expressive way to celebrate a great Bishop Auckland legend and immortalise our own Bosley Boar.

“Because it’s made of brushed galvanised wire children can climb over and sit on the sculpture.

“We hope it will become a much loved addition to our beautiful Deer Park and encourage visitors to get out and explore the area.”

Miss Stothard added: “It’s been a privilege to have worked on this project with the Auckland Castle team. It’s been a fantastic opportunity to bring the legend of Pollard’s Boar to life through my sculpture.

“I hope it will bring much enjoyment to all who discover him in his glade.”