ONE of Maidstone's new larger-than-life nativity scenes has been temporarily removed after being repeatedly targeted by vandals within days of being put up.

The Family Trust, the Christian charity which financed the modern art, has vowed not to be beaten by the vandals and will put security measures in place to prevent it from happening again.

Trustee Tony Hillier said: "This is is an important contribution to the town's celebrations of Christmas and a way of conveying the Christian message. The whole idea of art is that it's meant to be provocative and the works have certainly got people talking but, inevitably, there's always the possibility of trouble."

The entire display in Bearsted Road has been removed for repair after three separate attacks. They began last Wednesday night just hours after it was officially unveiled to councillors, local clergy and members of the public.

Large holes were kicked through three of the seven free-standing two-dimensional figures, with the Virgin Mary losing both of her legs and most of her torso. Police are investigating the vandalism.