Christmas tree damaged after just two weeks

Christmas tree damaged after just two weeks

14 December 2011

VANDALS who targeted Downpatrick’s new Christmas tree less than a fortnight after it was erected may have been captured on camera.

The 12 metre high tree — located at St. Patrick Square — was damaged last weekend when a series of holes were made in the artificial structure when branches were removed.

This part of the town is policed by a CCTV camera and police have been asked to review footage in a bid to discover who was responsible for the damage.

The attack has been condemned by Down Council chairman Dermot Curran and Tracey Quail, the head of Downpatrick Chamber of Commerce.

The council chairman, who switched on the tree lights nearly two weeks ago, said he is “outraged” and described what happened as an “act of mindless vandalism.”

He continued: “Down Council has recently completed a £3m public realm scheme in Downpatrick and we secured funding to invest in an impressive new tree for the town this year.

“It was the icing on the cake to have a new, modern Christmas tree which people of Downpatrick could be proud of. It will now cost ratepayers money to replace missing branches.”

Councillor Curran said it was hoped the new tree could be used for years to come and called on people to treat it with respect.

“The tree belongs to everyone, but if vandal attacks persist I can’t imagine what it could look like next year.

“The St. Patrick Square area is monitored by CCTV cameras and we will be asking asking police to check the footage with the aim of identifying those responsible for the damage.”

The chairman added: “I would appeal to people not to vandalise the tree or its lights. This is a key feature of the Christmas decorations for everyone in Downpatrick to enjoy over the festive season.”

Councillor Curran also urged anyone with information about the vandalism attack on the tree to contact the police.

Tracey Quail said she was “very disappointed” to learn of the damage to the Christmas tree, emphasising it belongs to everyone.

She added: “Vandalising the tree is a despicable and reckless act. Some people in Downpatrick have commented to me that they feel sad, angry and puzzled over these acts of vandalism.”

Anyone who has information about the vandalism attack on the Christmas is asked to contact police on 0845 600 8000 or use the confidential Crimestoppers number, 0800 555 111.