TWO residents slept next to the statue of Robert Baden-Powell overnight to prevent its removal from Poole Quay.

Bournemouth Echo:

Local resident Stephen (no surname given) wakes up next to the statue of Robert Baden-Powell on Poole Quay. Photo: Andrew Matthews/PA Wire 

Dan Davies and another man known only as Stephen camped out on Thursday evening after local residents vowed to protect the statue.

Bournemouth Echo:

As reported yesterday, the statue has been placed under “24 hour security” following concerns it may be targeted by protesters.

Bournemouth Echo:

Bournemouth Echo:

Yesterday, councillor Mark Howell, deputy leader of BCP Council, said the security would be in place until the statue is either removed or the threat diminishes.

Bournemouth Echo:

Bournemouth Echo:

It comes after BCP Council said it would temporarily remove the statue of the Scouting movement founder following the listing of it on a website detailing potential targets for protesters.

Bournemouth Echo:

Bournemouth Echo:

Campaigners said his founding of the scouting movement "can be no excuse for his documented homophobia, racism and enthusiastic support of Hitler".

Bournemouth Echo:

Local residents Dan Davies sits next to the statue of Robert Baden-Powell 

Bournemouth Echo:

Bournemouth Echo:

The statue remains in place this morning and has not been boarded up.