It’s an iconic sight on Short Quay.

But showman Bill Piper’s famous traditional caravan has been removed from Kinsale town and now local residents are campaigning to have it returned ahead of the busy tourism season.

Posting on the Kinsale Notice Board Facebook group, Marc O’Riain branded the move a “crazy decision”.

“If you have not heard, the council have evicted Pipers traditional show caravan from Kinsale for good!” he said.

“The people of Kinsale are rallying to change the Council’s decision. We already have 500 supporters and support means pressure! Pressure on elected councillors in the Bandon Kinsale District from voters.”

The green wooden caravan, which once took pride of place in Piper’s Funfair, is one of the most popular backdrops for tourist photos and selfies in the town. In 2016 it was even the star of its very own photo book, The Showman, by West Cork artist June Fairhead.

‘The question is why?’

Supporters are now calling for the caravan to be reinstated or relocated to another part of the town, where it has lived since 1930.

Almost 900 people have added their signatures to a petition on Change.org. Campaigners are also asking the Council to offer a reason for the removal of the caravan

“The question is why? What valid and honest reason is there to remove it?” posted Frank O’Keeffe.

“It takes up a tiny amount of space, is a lovely little attraction, gives character to the square and is a long-standing part of the town.”