I FEEL I need to add balance to your lead article Vandal destroys village memorial on October 19. Obviously we are all upset by the damage caused to the War Memorial, but I feel that to say it was an act of mindless vandalism is not really how it was.

I FEEL I need to add balance to your lead article 'Vandal destroys village memorial' on October 19.

Obviously we are all upset by the damage caused to the War Memorial, but I feel that to say it was 'an act of mindless vandalism' is not really how it was.

A young man, from the area, had enjoyed one too many drinks, not an uncommon thing these days or indeed in the past. In his distorted drunk wisdom it seemed like a good idea to climb to the top of the War Memorial.

Nearing the top, the cross fell off - he went with it, resulting in a very serious injury for which he is still in hospital. Yes, it was stupid, but mindless vandalism it wasn't.

The pub, where the man had been drinking, has since had a sponsored silence and I believe they have raised £300 to help pay for the repairs.

Mary Curry

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