Christmas tree attacked by vandals - 20/11/06
The Vale of Glamorgan Council has condemned as "mindless" and
"irresponsible" the overnight vandalism of a specially manufactured
Christmas tree erected on King Square, Barry.
Just over 24 hours after the Christmas lights switch on at the
Town Hall and square and a celebratory family event attended by
thousands of people, the tree was so badly damaged that it is still
too early to say whether it can be repaired and replaced.
The incident, which took place at around 10.30pm on Saturday,
was caught on closed circuit television (CCTV).
Staff at the Council's CCTV Control Room are working with the
Police to identify the culprits and take appropriate action.
Town Centre Manager Emma Smith appealed to anyone who knew
anything about the incident, which involved up to three youths, to
contact the police.
"I was appalled when I heard of the vandalism," she said. "The
tree had already been admired by many thousands of residents and
visitors alike, including children with disabilities.
"The parents of one child with a visual impairment commented
that the tree's innovative design made it possible for their
daughter to appreciate the magic of the occasion.
"When the Council and its partners are seeking to do so much to
promote the town, it is deeply disappointing that a few idiots are
able to spoil things for the majority."
Unfortunately, although the worst, this was not the first case
of vandalism relating to the new development in the centre of
Barry, with graffiti having been sprayed on to shelters in Central
Park.
Emma added: "The Council will not tolerate this sort of
anti-social behaviour by selfish and thoughtless individuals, and
will do its utmost to bring the perpetrators to justice. However,
this can only be achieved with the support of the public and local
traders who, should they witness such incidents, call the police
immediately."
Despite the inclement weather, the party to celebrate to
completion of the town centre scheme – the new County Library opens
in January – was a huge success and, in the words of Council Leader
Cllr Jeffrey James, a "great community event."
The lights were switched on by Cllr James, accompanied by Vale
Mayor Cllr Nic Hodges and Children in Need's Pudsey Bear.
Among the entertainers on stages in King Square and Central Park
were Holton Road (Barry) School Choir, VIBE Singers, the Keith
Little Jazz Band, Mabon, Purple Hearts, Barry Male Voice Choir, RAF
St Athan Band, street entertainers, jugglers and magicians.
Cllr James said he hoped the switching on of the lights "marks
the beginning of a new and confident Barry."
The Council extends its thanks to the many traders who opened
their doors for the late night crowds and especially Wilkinson who
donated confectionery for the event.
Further town centres events in the run up to Christmas are a
Continental Market from December 7-9 and a Christmas Grotto on
December 9.