The idea of putting a sculpture of a shepherd and his flock on the roundabout near the Dotterel at Reighton has won the backing of local councillors.

Ronald Falck, who is artist in residence at Castle Howard but who lives in Bridlington, has designed the 12ft bronze sculpture.

And he has enlisted master blacksmith David Cooper, who works at Pinfold Lane Industrial Estate, to make the artwork.

Mr Falck, who last year visited New York to produce paintings based on the city's boxing community, said: "It could be seen as a sculpture, a monument, an icon, a celebration of the past, a sign, a symbol, a landmark, an effigy, or just an 'aesthetic', but whichever way it is seen, it should end up as a silhouette of beauty, a 'presence' against the wonderful panoramic skies on top of the hill."

"When Balfour-Beatty were building the new traffic island next to the Dotterill, I thought it needed a sculpture to enhance the area.

"I wanted to make something significant which would enhance what has always been a sparse and bleak place, to give something aesthetic with a warm feeling in character with the past."

He said he hoped it would be non-controversial and encourage pride in the local area. Another proposed feature would be the creation of a subtle musical sound, created by the wind as it blows through the flute.

Reighton Parish Council chairman Anthony Watson said: "We think it's a great idea. It would put this area on the map and be a talking point, whether you liked it or not.

"With this being a tourist area as well, I think it's nice to have something, especially on that new bypass where it would be a real focal point."

Mr Falck has also proposed an information board about the history of the area, a viewing platform and a detail of the sculpture on display in the Dotterel for closer inspection.

Joan Beecroft, landlady at the Dotterel, said: "It would be nice to have a landmark on the horizon and a bit of sculpture that linked in with the farming community."

The sculpture would stand at the highest point of the traffic island on a 6ft base and have a muted bronze appearance to create a dark silhouette.

The total cost of the project would be about £18,000.

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