Mindless vandals have caused hundreds of pounds worth of damage to a Christmas tree in the heart of Ryde overnight – a town that has already pulled back on festivities due to similar incidents in previous years. The festive centrepiece at Minghella Square, just off the High Street, has seen its lights ripped off and decorations smashed. Ryde Town Council will now have to foot the bill – and there is no guarantee that the lights will be repaired ahead of Christmas. This year, Christmas trees have not appeared at Binstead, on the Esplanade or at Gassiot Green in Oakfield as a result of vandalism in previous years and the opportunity for the town council to save money. The size of the remaining trees in Ryde has reduced significantly too. It’s hoped that CCTV from nearby commercial premises will have caught the culprits in the act. Upset locals have branded the ‘horrible’ actions of the person or persons involved as ‘disgusting’, ‘disgraceful’ and ‘dreadful’. UPDATE – Ryde Town Council has confirmed its contractors have been able to swiftly replace the lights. A spokesperson has said:
“It’s disheartening to witness any vandalism affecting Ryde’s community assets. While some lights could be repaired, others had to be replaced. The issue is under further investigation”.
