That was the question that had folk in Hebden Bridge scratching their heads after dozens of pairs of red shoes were strewn along the streets.

The shoes, trainers and flip-flops even appeared on the island in the river at Riverside Walk. But then, just as mysteriously, they were taken away.

Helen Hutchinson, of Charlstown, Hebden Bridge, asked: "Is it some kind of art? And if it is, where have they left their socks?"

Liz Hughes, of Eastwood, said: "I'm intrigued. It's quite a talking point."

Matthew Paling, of Underbank Avenue, said originally there had been "hundreds" of pairs of shoes along Market Street. But then they disappeared. "It's very strange," he said

Phil Withersby, co-owner of the Calder Gallery, said: "It's just a bit of fun, something to make people think and laugh. But I've no idea who is responsible.

"I wish I did – it's a great idea."

But Annette Gaunt, of Dodnaze, did not approve. She said: "We already have a washing line with a pair of boxer shorts on it on one of the islands.

"Who do these people think they are? Don't they realise the ducks are nesting on the islands? They should stop dressing this town up."

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