SOMETHING has been troubling Ramsbottom art fans of late and their woes have been the centre of much debate.

For a treasured artwork that stands proud in the centre of town has not quite been itself for the last two years, due to a lack of water.

But all is now well among sculpture enthusiasts as the well-known Urn sculpture – also known locally as the Tilted Vase – is back up and running.

Unveiled in Market Place in 1998, the bronze centrepiece was the result of a £250,000 National Lottery grant.

It was designed by sculptor Edward Allington to symbolise Ramsbottom’s historical association with water, as the town sits on the River Irwell.

However, the Urn’s water feature has not been flowing since 2013 and local residents have joined councillors in trying to get the ‘tap’ turned back on.

Ramsbottom Cllr Robert Hodkinson, who has previously worked in the pumping industry, said the sticking point was the cost of repair and maintenance.

“A quotation to carry out the repairs to the system along with ongoing annual service and periodic testing of the water proved to be more than Bury Council was prepared to pay,” said Cllr Hodkinson.

He added: “I fully supported the restoration of the water feature to bring the ‘tilted vase’ back to life. Without the flowing water the sculpture is pointless.”

The problem was discussed at a meeting of Ramsbottom, Tottington and North Manor Township Forum on September 16 and now a solution has been found.

Cllr Hodkinson said: “After several site visits with the company that provided the original quotation, it was agreed that the cost could be reduced significantly using a smaller pump and a floating brominator, which would keep the water clean.

“Ongoing daily and weekly inspections would be provided by the local business community.

“The water feature has been tested and is ready to be formally switched back on.”

Sculpture fan David Wilson, 68, of Ramsbottom, said: “It will be good to see the water flowing again.

“Some people didn’t like the Urn when it was installed but I think it does exactly what art is supposed to – it provokes debate. If people are talking, then the sculptor has done his job. That is what public art is all about.”

The Urn, which forms part of the Irwell Valley Sculpture Trail, will run from 8am to 8pm.