A STEEL sculpture which caused controversy when it was first erected in a town centre, has been moved - more than 30 years later.

The 13-ton black triangular shape, named after Thornaby's motto, Always Advancing, was lifted by a crane from its home in the town's shopping precinct yesterday morning to the middle of a busy roundabout at the junction of Trenchard Avenue and Mitchell Avenue.

Councillors hope the move will give it a higher profile - and put an end to repeated attacks by vandals.

The six-metre high sculpture, designed by Brian Wall and made at the Head Wrightson engineering works, cost £9,000 when it was bought for the town in 1967. But there was an outcry from residents who claimed it was an eyesore and a waste of money.

Councillor Steve Walmsley said it was now recognised as a symbol of the town.

"The idea is that we are trying to restore the town's identity and the town's pride so we suggested that the two symbols of Thornaby - Always Advancing and the Five Lamps - should be in prominent places. Everybody travelling through Thornaby will be able to enjoy the sculpture and hopefully be curious about it. We are also going to plant around it and it will be lit up at night."

The Five Lamps will be moved back to its home at the junction of George Street and Mandale Road later this year