A NORTH-EAST town is vying with cities such as New York and Athens to be home to a giant sculpture.

Middlesbrough's skyline could be redefined if it is able to resist the international competition to be a permanent site for Marsyas, a 590ft creation made of three steel rings joined by a bright red trumpet-shaped PVC membrane.

Inspired by a satyr in Greek mythology, it is the work of London-based Indian artist Anish Kapoor and was in the turbine hall of the Tate Modern until April.

In mythology, Marsyas was flayed by Apollo after losing in a musical contest using a flute that had been discarded by the instrument's inventor, Minerva.

Now the race is on to find a permanent home for the sculpture and Middlesbrough Mayor Ray Mallon has confirmed the town's interest.

"This particular piece of art is known internationally and both New York and Athens want it," he said.

"Middlesbrough and the Tees Valley have to be ambitious and this is a piece of art we should consider for the area.

"I am determined to ensure Middlesbrough has a designer label image. Art is part of that image."

The mayor said that people were initially critical of Anthony Gormley's Angel of the North, in Gateshead, but it had now become a key part of the Tyneside brand.

He said Marsyas could have similar impact on Middlesbrough's image and would encourage people to visit.

If the statue does come to Middlesbrough, it will be installed near the Riverside Stadium at Middlehaven, which is about to undergo a major £50m development process on the 250-acre site.

Chairman of the Tees Valley Partnership, Alistair Arkley, said: "Given the intended position of the thing, it is just as well it is red and not black and white.

"Clearly this is the right thing to do and it will give people a focal point.

"I don't see why Middlesbrough shouldn't get the piece. Maybe the artist will decide there is already enough art in other places and wants to make sure it will be more talked about.

"Looking at the shape of the thing, we should be blowing our own trumpet."