>"PAGANS have pledged to perform “rain magic” to wash away cartoon
>character Homer Simpson who was painted next to their famous fertility
>symbol - the Cerne Abbas giant.
>
>The 17th century chalk outline of the naked, sexually aroused, club-
>wielding giant is believed by many to be a symbol of ancient
>spirituality.
>
>Many couples also believe the 180ft giant, which is carved in the
>hillside above Cerne Abbas, Dorset, is an aid to fertility.
>
>A giant 180ft Homer Simpson brandishing a doughnut was painted next to
>the well-endowed figure today in a publicity stunt to promote The
>Simpsons Movie released later this month.
>
>It has been painted with water-based biodegradable paint which will
>wash away as soon as it rains.
>
>Ann Bryn-Evans, joint Wessex district manager for The Pagan
>Federation, said: “It’s very disrespectful and not at all
>aesthetically pleasing.