A group is calling on thieves to return the distinctive sculpture it recently installed.

The 8ft silver-coloured mushroom has been taken from the start of a footpath leading to Walters Wood, Ouston, near Chester-le-Street.

It is one of two metal sculptures made by local environmental artist Graeme Hopper.

It was installed at the end of last month by the Ouston and Urpeth Conservation Volunteers (OUCV), which looks after the area.

The work was commissioned by the group to mark the relaunch of its circular walk in Ouston and to replace a carved timber stile stolen about three years ago.

"The sculpture, which marked the start of the circular walk, was on site less than three weeks before it disappeared,'' said OUCV secretary Sue Higgins.

"It was installed through Durham County Council's Parish Paths Partnership Scheme at a prominent siteopposite the school, so that it could be enjoyed by local residents," she said.

"The group is understandably very disappointed and upset at its loss. It is very tall and not something you can easily manhandle or conceal.

"It was made by Graeme, who is well-known in the region for his mushroom sculptures, after working with the volunteers.

"We wanted something organic and natural, rather than a modern art piece, to represent the work we do to improve the local environment. It seems bizarre that someone should take such a distinctive sculpture and we would like it to be returned as soon as possible."

Police are investigating the theft.