Dismay after gang damages Doncaster war memorial

Police said a gang of three men used a crowbar to remove the plaque from the monument in a park in Conisbrough, near Doncaster, but were seen by two officers passing in a car on patrol.

The thieves were chased over a wall and through the park but managed to escape, leaving the crowbar and the badly damaged plaque behind.

Russ Murray, the Royal British Legion’s county manager for South and West Yorkshire said yesterday: “These memorials are the focus of respect for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

“We are dismayed at the mindless vandalism in this case, but realise that there will be much revulsion for those who have violated that respect.”

Peter Davies, Mayor of Doncaster, said: “I am appalled that anyone could have such little respect for our war dead.

“The mindless actions of these individuals have caused much upset to the people of Conisbrough and no doubt left an expensive repair bill.

“Well done to the officers who foiled this theft, I would urge anyone with information to contact the police and help see that these people are brought to justice.

“Metal thieves cause misery to thousands of people across the borough each year. I want to see the strongest penalties being given to those convicted of offences.”

Inspector Ray Mountford, who leads the area’s local policing team said: “I am utterly disgusted that these individuals have desecrated the honour of people who fought and lost their lives for this country.

“There has been no regard or respect to what these plaques represent, or mean to the community.

Anyone with information about the incident, which happened at 12.20am last Thursday, should contact South Yorkshire Police on 0114 220 2020, or contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.