A hedge sculpture shaped like Peppa Pig has been "beheaded" in an act of vandalism, prompting a police appeal for information. The topiary, which took years to grow, was discovered with its head hacked off, and the owners believe a saw was used.
Owner Devastated by Deliberate Damage
Laura Hinton, whose family created and cared for the 4ft hedge sculpture, said she has been left "devastated" by the incident. The damage occurred between August 13 and 15 near the village of Newton Purcell, on the route towards Bicester, Oxfordshire. Laura's family said the damage across four separate stumps appeared deliberate.
She said: "It has taken years to grow. This was distressing not only because of the nature of the vandalism but also the time, effort and dedication topiary takes. Peppa was loved by the locals and by visitors alike. The head they cut off was not left at the scene. They must have taken it with them. They must have also brought their own saw."
Safety Concerns and Police Investigation
Laura shared safety concerns, adding that the act "also suggests a level of concern for personal safety, as someone was around the property with a saw." Thames Valley Police have appealed for information. A spokesperson said: "We have received a report of criminal damage on Buckingham Road, Newton Purcell, as you have described below. We would ask anyone with information, dash-cam or CCTV footage to contact the force on 101 or by making a report via our website quoting reference 43260423720."
Peppa Pig's Cultural Impact
Peppa Pig first appeared on British TV screens more than 22 years ago in May 2004. The show's ninth series began broadcasting in summer last year. The popular show has sparked theme parks across Europe and the US, and in 2024 the cartoon received its own store in Battersea Power Station, central London.
