Constructed mostly from locally sourced scrap metal, the eco-friendly structure in the grounds of Abington Primary also overlooks the village, serving as a unique community landmark.

Created by the skilled hand of renowned blacksmith Kev Paxton, the sculpture was made possible by a £20,000 award from the South Lanarkshire Council-administered Renewable Energy Fund (REF).

Now, the bespoke creative arts project, in which all 39 pupils had a hands-on role, has been officially unveiled to the public.

Head Teacher Kay Macpherson explained the story behind South Lanarkshire’s newest art installation: “The project was born out of a desire to replace a much-loved but weather-worn willow Gruffalo sculpture that had been at the front of our school for many years.

“We were delighted to receive funding approval from the Andershaw Windfarm Grant through the REF, which allowed us to formally commission Kev, who immediately understood the community aspect of the project and was enthusiastic about making the children a part of the creative process.

“Together, they have turned old metal into an amazing piece of sculpture. It’s been an incredible lesson in sustainability and imagination for our children, showing them that with vision, almost anything can be repurposed and brought to life.”

According to Blacksmith Kev, he knew straight away that the project was ‘right up my street’. Although he admits he needed a crash course on what a Gruffalo actually was…

He added: “By the time all nine feet of him had come to life in our workshop, I felt like I knew ‘Gruffy’ very well. We hope we’ve done this fabulous character the justice he deserves, and that our sculpture brings years of joy to this lovely school.

“Perhaps his presence will inspire the children to dream up and write about whatever scary monsters and wee heroes are out there, waiting to be discovered in the deep dark woods.”

South Lanarkshire Council’s Chair of Community and Enterprise Resources, Councillor Robert Brown, says the project perfectly exemplifies the lasting community benefit that the REF was set up to deliver.

He went on: “This particular project was funded directly by Andershaw windfarm operated by Greencoat UK Wind, and the £135,000 it contributes to the REF for community benefit grants.

“And it represents a fantastic example of a collaborative, community-driven initiative that blends creative artistry with sustainable practices.

“Mainly constructed from donated metal objects from the local community, as well as components from an old playpark salvaged by Kev, this is recycling at its most innovative, giving the Gruffalo a unique texture and a wonderful story of sustainability and community repurposing.”

The Renewable Energy Fund is made up of money received from the 42 windfarms within the South Lanarkshire boundary and is used to help communities affected by them to improve their quality of life and the local economy.

*The use of the Gruffalo image for the project was approved by Magic Light Pictures on behalf of author Julia Donaldson.