The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
War memorial stone smashed by vandals
Police appeal after plaque damaged just two weeks after installation
“Mindless” vandals have destroyed a plaque dedicated to a village’s war dead.
Police are investigating after the memorial stone on Methilhill’s Main Street was kicked from its plinth and left in pieces on the ground.
Hard-working members of the local Women’s British Legion had raised funds for months to have it erected next to a memorial bench on November 9, in time for Remembrance Sunday.
The fact it was the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War made it particularly poignant.
The women are said to be horrified at the memorial’s destruction just two weeks later.
Local SNP councillor Ken Caldwell called on anyone with information about the vandalism some time over the weekend, to pass it to police.
He said: “The Legion ladies had fundraised hard for this memorial and were very proud to have achieved it in time for the 100-year anniversary, so you can imagine their disgust when this was seen.
“It is a sad day when these memorials, which commemorate those who fell in past wars, are shown absolutely no respect. The community is working hard to make Methilhill a better place, only for it to be spoiled by a senseless few.”
Fellow SNP councillor John O’Brien also condemned the vandalism.
“It was put in place as a surprise for the community, saying we will never forget those who gave their lives,” he said.
“Just two weeks later it became a target for mindless vandals and it was destroyed.
“It’s such a shame something dedicated to the war dead of Methilhill has been desecrated in this way.”
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Police in Fife are investigating after a report of vandalism in Methilhill.
“The incident happened in the Main Street area between 9pm on Saturday November 24 and 6.20am on Sunday November 25 when a memorial plaque was damaged.
“Inquiries are ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 2504 of November 25, or to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
Two weeks. That’s how long a new memorial dedicated to the war dead of a Fife village lasted before being destroyed by vandals.
It really is a sad indictment.
Those responsible should hang their heads in shame – and while they are at it they may wish to spend a quiet few moments considering to whom the memorial they so callously destroyed was dedicated.