Models of the Kelpie sculpture will be displayed in May

The 35m high "Kelpie" heads are the brainchild of British Waterways and acclaimed artist Andy Scott and are based on the mythical Scots creatures.

They will form part of a �25m bid to the Big Lottery Fund for the ambitious Helix project.

The initiative aims to transform the landscape from Falkirk to Grangemouth.

The functional giant heads, complete with flowing manes, would be the same size as the renowned Falkirk Wheel visitor attraction and would form an integral part of the boat lift mechanism at the eastern entrance to the Forth and Clyde canal.

It will be a huge undertaking to create the world's largest equine sculptures Artist Andy Scott

Two heads would rock back and forwards to displace water from a lock chamber allowing boats to move to and from Scotland's lowland canal network.

The Kelpie theme was chosen not only for the role the water horse played in waterway folklore but also to pay respect to the role of the heavy horse throughout Scottish history.

Mr Scott, who is based in Glasgow, is currently making models of the sculptures which will go on public display in May.

He said: "It will be a huge undertaking to create the world's largest equine sculptures.

'Fantastic resource'

"However, the process I am following to create the scaled-down maquettes will give both me and the engineering team a greater understanding of the issues and challenges ahead."

Mr Scott has already created the landmark "Heavy Horse" which sits at the side of the M8 between Glasgow and Edinburgh as well as various other pieces in Australia and Spain.

Richard Millar, from British Waterways, said: "If the bid is successful we will be in a position to create not only a fantastic community resource but also a world-class piece of art which, like the Falkirk Wheel, could become an icon for Scotland and a major tourist attraction."