VILLAGERS are up in arms after their beloved yarn giant was stolen and found washed up down a river.

Gwril the giant, a centrepiece in Llwyngwril since he was installed in the summer, was cut loose from his mount by vandals, leading to a frantic search for his recovery.

Fortunately, Gwril was found washed down stream just a few days after he went missing.

News of his disappearance swiftly flooded local social media and search parties were sent out to find the stranded woollen creation.

Residents also vented their frustration at the “sad and despicable” people who they say “vandalised” the new family favourite.

Gwril was installed in June as part of a ‘yarn-bombing project’ – a scheme which saw various woollen installations placed throughout Llwyngwril to brighten up the community and raise money for the local Ganolfan.

Pat Griffiths, one of the committee members of the yarn-bombing project, was relieved.

“He turned up in the river some distance from the bridge where he resides, he’s sustained some light damage, but he can be repaired,” said Pat.

“Thanks to some mindless idiots who obviously have nothing better to do than to spoil other people’s enjoyment he could’ve been lost forever.

“Good job it was last weekend and not this as he would have been out to sea.

“He will return for next year’s yarn-bombing theme and our community centre will benefit once again from next year’s efforts.”

In other news, the creators of Gwril have been busy decking the halls at the village’s train station.

A row of woollen ‘fairy lights’ and a crafted Christmas Tree have appeared at the station to give visitors and locals alike a festive treat.