As visitors and residents poured into Hebden Bridge town centre on Saturday morning, they were faced with the unusual sight of dozens of pairs of red shoes strewn along the streets.

The brightly-coloured footwear also appeared on the duck island in the river at Riverside Walk and outside the Calder Gallery, Market Street.

And although the feathery friends are not being driven quackers by the new additions - the people responsible, and reason why, is still a mystery.

Helen Hutchinson, of Charlstown, Hebden Bridge, is one confused resident.

She said: “Is it some kind of art? And where have they left their socks?”

Liz Hughes, of Eastwood, Hebden Bridge, said: “I’m intrigued about what happens next. It’s quite a talking point. But only in Hebden Bridge.”

Matthew Paling, of Underbank Avenue, Hebden Bridge, said there were originally many more.

“There were hundreds of them on Market Street originally. It’s very strange.”

Phil Withersby, co-owner of the Calder Gallery, said: “It’s just a bit of fun, something to make people think and laugh. It’s a talking point. I have no idea who is responsible.

“But I wish I did as it’s a great idea.”

A volunteer at Shelter, Bridge Gate, who did not want to be named, said: “We have had a few pairs of shoes brought in for donations but I had to put them back. I don’t know if it’s art or what?”

But Annette Gaunt, of Dodnaze, Hebden Bridge, did not approve of the mystery trainers and flip-flopps.

“We already have a washing up line strung up with a pair of boxer shorts on at another island in Hebden Bridge. Who do these people think they are - Hippies of the Caribbean?

“Don’t they realise that the ducks are nesting on the islands?

“Stop dressing this town up!”