The granddaughter of Dixie Dean has criticised the 'inappropriate and entirely unnecessary" vandalism of the famous Everton statue at Goodison Park.
The sculpture - which is often used as a memorial site - was lit with a flare earlier today sparking outrage across Liverpool.
The flare is believed to have been left on the beloved statue in the early hours of Sunday morning before burning out and causing a small amount of damage.
Staff from Everton cleaned the statue later in the day before contacting police and passing on vital CCTV footage.
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Officers have now confirmed they are looking into the incident which was described as "disgusting" and "disgraceful" by supporters.
"We are disappointed, saddened and quite frankly a little puzzled as to why somebody should choose to desecrate the statue of Grandad in such a manner," Prentice, grand-daughter of Dean and director of the city centre hotel which bears his name, said.
"The perpetrators are clearly not aware of the warm, friendly and cordial relationship my grandad enjoyed with Liverpool legend Bill Shankly or that my grandad's statue is a place where relatives lay flowers for those who have recently passed away.
"It is inappropriate and entirely unnecessary."
