‘Disgusting’ vandals chop down village Christmas tree hours after light switch-on
Villagers were left “heartbroken” after the Christmas tree lights were cut down just hours after it was switched on.
The tree at Shotton Colliery in County Durham has been decorated every year for more than a decade as part of a festive tradition beloved by local residents.
But the incident, which police believe was a “deliberate act”, took place between 10pm and 11pm on Wednesday, the day the lights were lit by members of the community to celebrate the festive season.
In the pictures, it can be seen that the large tree fell on its side.
Durham Police are appealing for any witnesses to come forward following what they called a “disgusting, mindless act of vandalism” and said they were taking the incident “extremely seriously”.
They said anyone with any footage or information about the slaughter should come forward.
PC David Allan, of Peterlee Neighborhood Policing Team, said: “This was a disgusting, mindless act of vandalism that has caused great distress to the village at a time when our community should be coming together.
“We take this incident extremely seriously and will deal with anyone responsible as robustly as the law allows.
“This behavior has no place in our society. Someone knows something; please help us find out who is responsible.”
People reacted with anger and sadness to the news after Peterlee Police posted on social media appealing for witnesses.
Kelly Betteridge commented: “This is not just a tree, it was planted to commemorate the men and women of the First World War. It should be treated the same as any war memorial that has been vandalised. I hope you catch them.”
Marie Lincoln added: “I hope you see this morning that the criminals have gotten over this incident and it is truly heartbreaking for residents.”
“I hope they get caught, they ruin everyone’s life in the village with all the cameras on, it’s disgusting,” Ruth Smith said.
