����ý

An "iconic" sculpture alongside a motorway could be about to receive £35,000 of repair work.

The Willow Man was created 20 years ago by Serena de la Hey, a Kenyan-British sculptor, after the piece was commissioned by South West Art.

It stands near junction 23 of the M5, close to Bridgwater, but has recently become unrecognisable from its original state and funding from the National Highways could see the statue repaired.

Ms de la Hey said: "The desire to see him remain where he is as a representative of the south west is close to many people's hearts."

Somerset councillor Mike Rigby said: “We’re really pleased National Highways have given us this money to explore the possibilities.

“But we need to be clear that any potential project looking to repair, enhance or relocate Willow Man would be subject to another significant funding bid, or bids – it unfortunately is not a spending priority at this point."

Standing at 40ft (12m) tall, the Willow Man was created to celebrate the millennium, and show the role of willow reeds in ecology and the craft tradition of the Somerset Levels.

The council will be asking the public their opinion in the near future with an online survey.

It will also be speaking with local parish councils and other key stakeholders over the next few weeks to gather their views.