Outrage as memorial benches are wrecked
Vandalsgoonrampageinparkanddestroyseats
FRASER WILSON
Vandals have sparked fury after destroying a number of memorial benches at the James Hamilton Heritage Park.
Park-goers were left horrified to discover the benches that line the loch in the park had been damaged, besmirching the memory of much missed loved ones.
Not only have the mindless vandals damaged four of the benches in the park, three of them have been destroyed beyond repair.
One furious local told the News: “This must be really upsetting for the families who have honoured their loved ones in this way.
“It’s a disgrace and a real shame. And it’s clear as day that it has been vandals.
“Storm damage hasn’t done that, they have been kicked in.”
The benches, which offer vital spots of rest for the elderly or those with health difficulties exercising in the park, have now been taped off and are out of use.
South Lanarkshire Council’s head of facilities, waste and grounds services said that he was “extremely disappointed” at the mindless acts of destruction.
Alistair McKinnon added: “Some of the benches appear to be beyond repair and we will write to the owners to see what they want to do next.
“We would ask anyone who witnesses acts of vandalism or has any information to get in touch with Police Scotland.”
Councillor Monique McAdams called the behaviour “completely unacceptable” and asked for anyone with information about what happened to the benches to contact the police.
The East Kilbride West councillor added: “There has been no thought to the distress put onto others by those responsible.
“Families and friends will have been left devastated by these selfish actions to the memorial benches, users of the park that need to rest while walking all the way round have nowhere to sit.
“Vandalism of any kind is selfish and disappointing.”
Councillor Davie Watson said that he raised the matter with the council, but has yet to hear when work may start to repair or replace the benches because of staffing issues and a backlog of work caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
He called for everyone to play their part and “protect the quality of the jewel in the crown of East Kilbride”.
He also pointed out that repairs may take some time because families who have donated benches in memory of a loved one will have to be contacted and included in any work needing to be done.
Councillor Watson told the News: “If this has been vandalism, it’s totally uncalled for.
“Anyone who may have any information about who is responsible should be reporting this to the police. This is a well-used walkway and the benches are an important part of it.”
Families and friends will be devastated by these selfish actions to the memorial benches