Two men are to be charged with causing criminal damage to the Philip Lynott statue in Harry Street, off Grafton Street.

Hot Press understands that the two men walked into Pearse Street Garda Station this evening and made a statement to Gardaí admitting that they had caused the damage to the statue, which occurred last night.

As exclusively revealed by Hot Press earlier today, the damage occurred when the statue was toppled accidentally. However, according to the authorities it is unlikely that the incident will pass off lightly, as the Gardaí do intend to press ahead with charges.

Hot Press understands that the two men have extended their apologies to Philip's mother, Philomena Lynott. The incident occurred, according to reliable sources, in a moment of stupidity, "drink having been taken."

Sources confirm that the Gardaí were impressed with the fact that the culprits decided to own up to having caused the damage – thereby saving the State considerable time and effort – which hopefully will lead to the courts taking a lenient view.

The statue, meanwhile, has been taken to the foundry where it was originally cast for repairs to the damaged midriff (no pun intended) area. "I'll sleep more easily tonight," Philomena Lynott told Hot Press, "knowing that there was nothing wicked or malicious involved. I'd have been terribly upset if there was. So thank you to the two young men for coming forward."

It is currently anticipated that the statue will be back in situ, overlooking Grafton Street, in a week's time.