Police look for culprit of arson attack on war memorial days before Remembrance Sunday | UK | News
Veterans were left in “distress” after a “careless” fire was started in a bin next to the war memorial, damaging the grounds. Police launched an investigation into the arson attack that took place a few days before the commemoration ceremony on Sunday. Manchester Police said wooden pallets were set on fire near the Cenotaph in Marple, Stockport, on Wednesday and fire officials attended the scene. In response, the police increased the number of patrols in the area.
Police Sergeant Rachel Walton said: “This was a reckless act that could have resulted in further damage or even serious injury. Police units arrived on scene within minutes and the fire was quickly extinguished by our colleagues from Manchester Fire and Rescue Service. “We are working closely with partners at Stockport Council and the fire service to ensure the area is cleared and repaired.
“We want to identify those responsible and will have extra, high-visibility patrols in the park every evening until the Remembrance Day service on Sunday, November 9.”
He added: “The Cenotaph means so much to the community and events like this are deeply saddening, especially at a time when we need to honor the memory of our war veterans.”
Paul Doyle, co-founder of Veterans for Veterans, said the crime raised concerns that “this type of extremist behavior could embolden others.”
“As a Manchester-based organization supporting Veterans for Veterans, the UK’s largest military compensation company, we are deeply shocked and saddened to hear that a war memorial has been targeted here in our own city,” he told GB News.
“This disgraceful disrespect for those who served our country has caused genuine anger and distress within the veterans community.
“This also raises serious concerns as we approach Memorial Day Sunday, when families and veterans gather peacefully to honor the fallen.”
Mr Doyle, a former Grenadier Guard, added: “We fear that such extremist behavior could embolden others and pose a threat to these important and solemn commemorations that mean so much to so many people.”
Manchester Police have appealed for anyone with information about the arson attack to get in touch.
