A COLOURFUL lion savaged by vandals has been restored to its former glory.

The animal sculpture was extensively damaged by hooligans who caused a trail of destruction after breaking into the Grozone Community Garden at Old Dane Nurseries.

Yobs torched a yurt and smashed a urinal and sink in the accessible toilets in mid October.

The attack incensed residents and triggered a phenomenal response from wellwishers who donated almost £1,500 in six days.

All the damage has now been repaired free of charge by big-hearted businesses and individuals who rallied round to support the project.

The garden, managed by environmental charity Groundwork, enriches the lives of hundreds of people in the community through health and wellbeing projects, education programmes with schools and outdoor play sessions for toddlers.

Pete Attwood, Grozone volunteer and activity co-ordinator, said: "We want to say a big thank you to everyone. We have received lots of support from individual members of the public and from businesses.

"The damage to the lion hit us hard emotionally. Volunteers had spent a lot of time with an artist contributing their ideas. Everyone had a role in it and the lion was very much part of our vision, it was symbolic.

"To see its head caved in was rather disturbing but now it is all the more special that it has survived and been repaired to well that you can't see its battle scars."

Plastic Surgeon, an expert finishing and repair firm, has repaired the lion.

Operations manager Steve Lloyd said: "We felt it only right that we should step in and offer our expertise to help in putting things right, given our specialist skillset.

"The garden provides a lot of support within the community so it's really important that it continues to do so. The fact that so many local organisations have rallied together to help out only serves to demonstrate the community spirit that Grozone does so much work in fostering."

Simon Fisher, a specialist finisher at the firm spent a day at the gardens carefully rebuilding the lion.

Volunteers will now repaint the sculpture with an artist.

Jon Hutchinson, programme director from Groundwork, said: "We're absolutely delighted with the repair work that's been done by Plastic Surgeon. They've done a fantastic job. We're extremely grateful for their help and can't wait to get it repainted and back in pride of place."

Drain Doctor Cheshire have fitted a new urinal and sink.

Northwich Ladies Circle raised more than £350 after taking part in the 5k Glow in the Park run at Heaton Park.

Lostock Military Fitness donated a similar amount from a Halloween fancy dress event.

Kanya Bistro and Bar has contributed 25 per cent from evening meal bookings.

Pete added: "We feel the garden is really coming of age. We are being recognised for what we do by the community and that means so much to us.

"Any funds we get are a big help towards providing a range of opportunities for many different people to benefit."