Crewe war memorial damaged by metal thieves (From Crewe Guardian)

Crewe war memorial damaged by metal thieves

7:00am Sunday 24th June 2012 in News By Matthew Taylor

THIEVES with a ‘sheer disrespect’ for the dead have stolen from Crewe’s war memorial.

Offender prised away nine brass hooks, which are used to hang poppy wreaths placed there to remember those who have lost their lives fighting for their country.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the theft, which occurred at the memorial in Municipal Square, Earle Street, sometime between Sunday, April 1 and Wednesday, June 20.

PC Mike Rushton said: "It looks like they have also attempted to take a number of other hooks which has caused some damage.

"We would appeal to those who may have seen the act taking place to do the right thing and call us. The war memorial represents those from the town who have given their lives fighting in wars to protect us.

"Many will have brothers, sisters, uncles, aunties, mothers, fathers or grandfathers who were killed in action in wars spanning decades and will be deeply saddened by this selfish and mindless act.

"The brass hooks will have little value to the thieves, but the impact on the community is far greater because of what the memorial represents."

Clr Michael Jones, Leader of Cheshire East Council, added: "I deplore this act of vandalism and sheer disrespect for the people who gave their lives for ours today. In Cheshire East, we are extremely proud of our towns and villages and we want our residents to feel the same about them as we do.

"Our staff do a marvellous job in keeping the Municipal Square tidy − what a shame it is that a minority see it fit to bring the area down.

"Cheshire East Council is committed to supporting its servicemen and women, both in memory and in action."

Anyone with information should contact PC Mike Rushton at Crewe Neighbourhood Policing Unit on 101 quoting incident number 566 of June, 20 2012. Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.