Sheep

myminifactory

A group of three black-faced moorland sheep - one lying down, two standing - proudly sit atop a vibrant green slate and stone pedestal. Renowned animal sculptor Ted Roocroft had been honored to be shortlisted for the Sculpture for Peace competition held by Manchester City Council in 1985. His magnificent sculpture of sheep was widely admired, and following Barbara Pearson's winning entry, "Peaceful Dove", it was decided to also commission two additional pieces: Michael Lyons's "Doves of Peace" and Roocroft's captivating "Sheep". Roocroft's masterpiece was deemed particularly suitable for placement on the beautifully landscaped area in front of the recently restored Roman wall at Castlefield. It was installed there in 1986, where its low pedestal made it easily accessible to the public, as the sculptor had envisioned. However, some damage did occur, and Roocroft took it upon himself to visit and repair the sculpture regularly. Unfortunately, since his passing, these repairs have ceased, leaving both the sheep and the pedestal in need of restoration.