The bronze statue of the fisherman is completely naked

The Boatman was designed to reflect the town's industrial heritage but his naked form has caused some criticism.

Former shipyard worker, Marion Carter, said the statue was an "insult to fishermen".

But the town's mayor said no formal complaints had been made about the sculpture.

The statue, which has been erected on a plinth in the centre of the town, is part of a �2m regeneration project, which many living in the area said was well overdue.

The fisherman was always dressed, he had a cap on and a waterproof coat. I mean it sounds a bit dangerous to go out fishing naked Marion Carter, former shipyard worker

But Ms Carter said that the naked statue was not an appropriate figure to represent the town's past.

"The fisherman was always dressed, he had a cap on and a waterproof coat. I mean it sounds a bit dangerous to go out fishing naked," she said.

"I'm not narrow-minded but it just doesn't blend in with the rest of the town."

"None of the older residents like it at all."

But Chepstow Mayor, Phil Hobson said that the council had not received any formal complaints about the bronze sculpture.

Elaine Watson and Joanne Larkman like the statue

Although he did admit to being aware that a "a few people are a bit upset".

But, he said: "It seems to me people are suddenly getting quite attached to it.

"Everyone is talking about it and in that regard it is very successful."

And his comments were supported by many in the town on Monday.

Elaine Watson approved of the statue and said: "I think he is beautiful. I'm not offended by him at all," Elaine said.

John Lacy, a financial advisor for Moon and Co Estate Agents which is directly opposite the statue said that he had no problem with the sculpture.

The sculpture is part of a �2m regeneration project

"If it brings a bit of controversy, well that is great for Chepstow because it will bring people in to have a look," he said.

"I haven't got a problem with it at all."

Shopper Claire Mason said that she hadn't thought about whether the nudity of the statue was appropriate or not and said: "It isn't going to make me run in the opposite direction."