One of the creators of the Oscar-winning Scottish-set animated film Brave, has attacked Disney's "make-over" of its main character, the heroine Merida.

Brenda Chapman, the original director of Brave, said the changes in the depiction of Merida are "a blatantly sexist marketing move based on money".

Ms Chapman, who modelled Merida on her own daughter, said she has given Bob Iger, president of Walt Disney International, "a piece of my mind" for the glamorisation of the feisty character she first created.

Disney re-presented Merida as one of its official Princesses last week, but with a new look with a seemingly older age, more doll-like proportions and eyes, removing her bow and arrow and wearing a more glamorous gown.

Ms Chapman said: "There is an irresponsibility to this decision that is appalling for women and young girls. Disney marketing and the powers that be that allow them to do such things should be ashamed of themselves."

She added: "When little girls say they like it because it's more sparkly, that's all fine and good but, sub-consciously, they are soaking in the sexy 'come hither' look and the skinny aspect of the new version.

"It's horrible. Merida was created to break that mould – to give young girls a better, stronger role model, a more attainable role model, something of substance, not just a pretty face that waits around for romance."

Ms Chapman has added her name to a petition with more than 50,000 signatures asking Disney to reject the make-over of the character.

In a statement, Disney said: "Merida exemplifies what it means to be a Disney Princess through being brave, passionate, and con-fident and she remains the same strong and determined Merida from the movie whose inner qualities have inspired moms and daughters around the world."

Ms Chapman added: "They have been handed an opportunity on a silver platter to give their consumers something of more substance and quality – that will still sell – and they have a total dis-regard for it in the name of their narrow-minded view of what will make money.

"I forget that Disney's goal is to make money without concern for integrity."

Brave, featuring many Scottish actors including Kelly Macdonald, won a clutch of awards including a Bafta, a Golden Globe and the Oscar for best animated feature.