Latest: Baley the straw dog set alight in Coagh

The fire brigade attended the blaze on Sunday evening.

The giant dog, made from straw bales and displayed in a field on the Coagh-Moneymore road was the mascot for Scrufts 2014 and erected just one week before.

It was set on fire on Sunday evening and has been completely destroyed.

Philip Lockett, one of the organising committee said “Our bale dog had brought much amusement and joy throughout the last week, with many people stopping to photograph and admire the dog and many more posting photographs of it on Facebook.

“We’d like to thank both the fire brigade and PSNI for attending the scene.

“The fire has in no way dampened our enthusiasm to ensure Scrufts 2014 is the summer highlight for the area. There will be lots to see and do on Tamlaght Hill, Coagh between 11am and 3pm on Saturday 13th September.

“Dog show classes can be entered on the day, or if you don’t have a dog, come along and enjoy the summer fete stalls, bouncy slide, barbeque, face painting and much more.”

Scrufts 2014 is open to everyone, from 11am-3pm on Saturday 13th September 2014. All proceeds will be used to enhance local facilities for all to enjoy.