‘Despicable’ theft from restored war memorial attacked

Two large bronze plaques bearing the names of villagers who died during the two world wars have been wrenched from the memorial in Carlton-in-Lindrick, near Worksop.

Parish councillor Barry Bowles, who reported the theft to police, said the plaques must have been stolen on either Friday, March 18 or Saturday, March 19.

He said: “Our war memorial has again been the subject of criminal damage and, this time, theft.

“This memorial was completely renovated and rededicated in September 2009, costing many thousands of pounds. The plaques alone cost nearly £2,000 to repair after there had been an attempt to steal them previously, which had left them buckled.

“The parish council raised the money for this renovation by appealing to the good people of Carlton, who gave very generously, and to the War Memorial Trust for assistance.”

Brian Madden, Royal British Legion standard bearer for Worksop, described the theft as “despicable.”

The 68-year-old, who served with the Grenadier Guards, said: “It’s been desecrated for the second time in 18 months. It’s sickening because they’re not only desecrating the memorial, but ruining the memories of families and friends.”