Why Ed Sheeran is turning into a pig

British singer Ed Sheeran. Photo / Dean Purcell

Pop star Ed Sheeran is set to be turned into a pig as part of an art project in Ipswich, England.

Sheeran, who grew up in nearby Framlingham, will be honoured with a porcine sculpture for the Pigs Gone Wild art trail this year, when around 40 pig-shaped designs will be placed on display on the streets of Ipswich.

The singer's piggy likeness, named Ed Sheer Ham, has yet to be revealed, but the 24-year-old has given the fun project his full backing.

The sculptures will be auctioned off at the end of the summer to raise money for the local St Elizabeth Hospice, which Sheeran has previously supported with donations.

"We had a fantastic range of designs submitted by artists from around the country for the pig sculptures, but I think with Ed's local connection, being a Framlingham boy, an Ed pig was a must have," Norman Lloyd, the Pigs Gone Wild project manager, told the Ipswich Star newspaper.

"We're sure that 'Ed Sheer Ham' will not only prove an extremely popular pig on the trail, but that it will go on to raise thousands for the hospice when it goes to auction."

Sheeran has yet to comment on the unusual art project as he is taking an extended break after completing his Multiply world tour in December.

- WENN