Village Christmas tree vandalised

Thanet Council provides five Christmas trees in the district

A village Christmas tree has been attacked by vandals a day after the switching on ceremony.

On Wednesday the 28ft fir tree was decorated and the lights switched on in Birchington, Kent.

But on Thursday it was discovered that vandals had smashed all the lights around the base of the tree causing more than £200 worth of damage.

Thanet Council, which provides five trees in the district, said its funds were not limitless.

'Acts of selfishness'

Councillor Martin Wise said: "These mindless thugs are causing reckless damage, which not only causes thousands of pounds worth of damage but also upsets the local community.

"The council will not be forced into removing trees from their traditional sites but the council's funds are not limitless.

"There should be no hiding from these people who commit acts of selfishness against the community like this."

He said local people and businesses needed to watch out for vandalism and report anyone seen damaging the trees and decorations.