A MYSTIFIED family have launched a community-wide appeal to find Eddie the heavyweight eagle.
Because the lovingly, hand-carved effigy has vanished from the garden of the Sharples family home on Ladcastle, Dobcross.
Eddie, who is named affectionately after one of the family’s three children, took pride of place in the family garden and was adored by the children.
Standing several feet tall and weighing about eight stone, the wooden eagle was also a favourite landmark with walkers following the old Delph Donkey Trail.
Businessman Allan, who bought the eagle at last year’s Saddleworth Summer Show, said: “I don’t think jackdaws have stolen our magnificent sculpture – but it’s a mystery Eddie has taken flight.
“We placed him firmly on a plinth made from a tree stump. He’s really heavy and we thought his actual weight would prevent him from being removed.
“But when I came out if the house, I did a double take and he really had vanished. Goodness knows where he is… We’d just like to get him back where he belongs.”
Allan’s wife Ria added: “Eddie is loved by our children and admired by walkers passing our home on the trail.
“It’s hard to believe he’s simply vanished into thin air. He’s a really distinguished and striking looking sculpture and we do hope he is returned.”
Richard Bartlett is president of Saddleworth Rotary Club, which organises the legendary annual Saddleworth Summer Show which raises thousands of pounds for local causes.
He said: “It’s a real shame the family have lost the eagle which was bought to help support our worthwhile event. I hope the eagle is found and returned safely to them.”
A GMP spokesperson said: “Anyone who spots the eagle can report it to their Saddleworth neighbourhood policing team through the 101 service.”
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