Pagans have pledged to perform 'rain magic' to wash away a giant Homer Simpson 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 has been painted next to the giant in a publicity stunt to promote The Simpsons Movie. 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. "We were hoping for some dry weather but I think I have changed my mind. We'll be doing some rain magic to bring the rain and wash it away." Catherine Hosen, who is the Wiltshire representative for The Pagan Federation, said: "I find it quite shocking and very disrespectful. "It's just a publicity stunt for a film and we are talking about a monument which is definitely of great historical significance and a lot of people feel has important spiritual significance as well."
