A statue of a Roman God which sits atop Sheffield’s Lyceum Theatre has been taken down to be assessed for structural damage.

The statue was found to be rusting in a recent condition report and was taken down at around 9am this morning.

John Bates, Operations Director of Sheffield Theatres, said: “We are very fond of Freddie as he is a key visual of the building which we all know so well.

“We’re glad we are able to action the results of the report to keep our building in utmost condition, whilst honouring an icon of our city’s famous skyline.”

‘Freddie”, who is based on the Roman God Mercury, has crowned the theatre since its creation by Wendy Wall in 1990.

The current statue is a 12ft replica of the figure which stood on top of the theatre in the 19th century.

David Heugh, Chairman of the Sheffield Lyceum Theatre trust, added: “Having looked out at this wonderful vantage point overlooking the city for so many years we are delighted to give ‘Freddie’ the care and consideration such an iconic statue deserves.”

It is expected the statue will return to its home at the top of the theatre when a full assessment of its condition has taken place.