A MILLENNIUM sculpture by one of Britain's favourite artists has been scrapped after a spectacular falling-out among local councillors.

Mackenzie Thorpe, who is renowned internationally for his colourful work, had offered to create a bronze of his famous "square" sheep and shepherd in Richmond, North Yorkshire.

The generous artist had volunteered his services for free.

All he envisaged was a public appeal covering the material and administrative costs.

But things went awry when members of the Richmond Town Council committee, set up to pioneer the project, failed to agree about whether they should apply for a grant.

Chairman of the group, William Giles, stood down - with all but one member following his lead. After successfully steering the project through the planning procedure, David Johnson vowed to carry on. But even he has had to admit defeat now individuals who pledged money towards the sculpture have also pulled out.

There is still an £1,100 bill to pay to cover the costs of the architects who helped come up with the layout for the sculpture in the town's Friary Gardens.

Mr Johnson said: "It is a great shame - a missed opportunity. I feel Richmond has been let down and only wish others could see the wider picture.

"If we had stuck it out a little longer, we could have had another attraction to complement the Georgian Theatre and the castle."

However, although he admitted his own disappointment, Mackenzie Thorpe's sympathy was with Mr Johnson.

"It is sad as he worked so hard on the project," he said. "I know he feels he has let people down but he should not take the responsibility."

Mr Giles could not be reached for comment yesterday.