Stolen sculpture returned to Inverness venue with £100 donation and apology

A sculpture which was stolen from Eden Court Theatre in Inverness has been returned with a donation and an apology.

The scrap metal bird, created by artist Helen Denerley, went missing while on display as part of a charity art exhibition celebrating creativity and mental health back in October.

Estimated to be worth around £850, the bird was due to be sold to raise funds for Centred, a charity based in the Highlands.

Following an appeal for its safe return, the sculpture was handed back anonymously to Eden Court with a “generous” £100 donation and an apology.

Alana Kotrys, marketing and fundraising executive for Centred, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to have the bird back. We really weren’t expecting this lovely outcome, and the note of apology and £100 donation were such a thoughtful gesture.

“When we first realised the bird was missing, we said that we didn’t know the full story and wanted to approach the situation with kindness and understanding. We’re really pleased that things have ended this way.

“Thank you to whoever returned the bird and made the donation. Your kindness means a lot, and it’s a lovely reminder that there’s always room for understanding and a positive way forward.”

Artist Helen Denerley also wanted to share her thanks, saying: “Everyone I have told about the bird’s return has had such a positive reaction. Thank you to the person who returned it.”

Some of Denerley’s work includes the two giraffes located outside the OMNi Centre in Edinburgh city centre.