A COMMUNITY group that resurrected a memorial garden has spoken of its disappointment after vandals damaged part of it.

A group of local residents devoted their time, money and love last year to restore and erect a small memorial at Blackthorn Park in support of the community.

Yesterday, when they turned up to work at the site in prparation for coming remembrance services, they found that someone has attempted to damage ot, or possibly steal one of the memorial silhouette soldiers.

Damage to part of the memorial.

A spokesperson for the group said: "This act is deeply disrespectful, not only to the volunteers who gave so much to build the memorial, but even more so to the countless men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice during the First World War.

"But this will not defeat us. We will repair, rebuild, or replace the memorial and once again we will stand together to honour their memory and support the community we love."

Ward councillor Mark Hooper added: "I so sorry to see this. I last visited the gardens just over two weeks ago and all seemed well.

"I will of course support the work the volunteers do and I more than happy to contribute to any cost incurred .

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"I will do all I can as ward councillor to bring the community together for Remembrance Sunday.

"As Chair of the Stifford Clays Sea Scout group I thank all the volunteers for their support."