Harlequins stars Ross Chishol and Joe trayfoot came face to face with an unusual opponent this summer - a five-foot sculpture of Shaun the Sheep.

The sculpture, called ‘Petal’, was part of the ‘Shaun in the City’ trail which recently took place in London.

Fifty sculptures of Aardman’s much-loved character Shaun the Sheep were installed in iconic locations and green spaces all over the capital.

Each was individually designed by a different artist, designer or celebrity, and the flock will be auctioned later this year to raise money for Wallace & Gromit’s Children’s Charity, which supports sick children in hospitals all over the UK.

The trail welcomed hundreds of thousands of people from all over the world, and was extended for an extra week due to overwhelming public demand.

Two of its best-known visitors were Harlequins players Ross Chisholm and Joe Trayfoot. ‘Petal’ was sponsored by Norton Rose Fulbright, who also sponsor the Harlequins, and was located at More London.

Chisholm said: “Harlequins has been supported by Norton Rose Fulbright for many years and it’s great that they worked with the Wallace & Gromit Children’s Charity on this brilliant project.

"We’re all excited to see Shaun the Sheep as a supporter at the Rugby World Cup this year.”

A second ‘Shaun in the City’ trail featuring 70 different designs will hit the streets of Bristol from July 6 to August 31.

Visitors will be able to pick up a free trail map from points all over Bristol, or download the official ‘Shaun in the City: Sheep Spotter’ app to help them find the whole flock.

For more information, visit shauninthecity.org.uk.