A FENCE has been installed around a historic sculpture at a Basildon park due to rotting. 

Basildon Council say they have installed the temporary fence around the "After the Uprising" sculpture due to deterioration and rotting.

They say the sculpture may be taken down for a period of time while repairs works are carried out to protect and restore them.

The sculpture "After the Uprising" by Robert Koenig's commemorates a major historical event.

Carved from sweet chestnut, it symbolises seven figures from the Peasants' Revolt of 1381 and forms part of the free sculpture trail at Wat Tyler Country Park.

A spokesman for Basildon Council said: "We have temporarily installed fencing around the sculptures at Wat Tyler Country Park due to deterioration and rotting.

"The sculptures may be taken down for a period of time while we carry out an assessment and complete any necessary repairs to protect and restore them.

"We understand the importance of the historic piece and therefore want to ensure its long-term preservation while keeping it safe for visitors.

"We will provide further updates in due course."