Sir Anthony Gormley has expressed his anger at the vandalism of his Iron Men sculptures.
Over 100 of the now iconic ‘Another Place’ statues are dotted along the beat at Crosby but were recently painted to create the impression of clothing.
At least nine have been painted in bright colours by an unknown artist, tainting the natural artwork with polka dot bikinis and shorts and shirt combinations.
Following the discovery of the alternative paintwork, Gormley contacted Sefton Council to convey his annoyance that the sculptures had been defaced.
A council spokesman said: “We want everyone to enjoy and interact with the impressive Antony Gormley statues on Crosby beach, which are synonymous with Sefton.
“However, following this incident, we have been contacted directly by Mr Gormley with a view of removing these permanent decorations which we will now look into.
The Iron Men were placed on Crosby Beach in 2005 overlooking the Irish Sea and due to be moved to New York after a week but remained in Liverpool.
‘Another Place’ remains one of Gormley’s most beloved pieces of work along with the Angel of the North sculpture.