Wishaw Press

Vandals graffiti home of Martha, 89

- GREGOR FARQUHARSO­N

An 89-year-old pensioner has been left feeling scared in her own home after it was sprayed with graffiti by louts.

Martha Halliday discovered the graffiti-splattered wall of her home after she returned from worship at her local church.

Martha’s son, Martin, has been left infuriated that this has happened to his OAP mother and blasted the vandals responsibl­e.

He told the Wishaw Press this week: “My mother was at church in Allanton and returned home to see this graffiti.

“As you can imagine she has been feeling very stressed and is scared of any potential repercussi­ons.

“She is a well known face and character in the village.

“She is a church elder and is well liked.”

Martha has stayed in her flat in Allanton for 55 years, and Martin states that this is the first time she has ever had bother or felt unsafe in her home.

Martin, who dashed from his home in Carluke after hearing the news, explained how he believes this graffiti wasn’t aimed at his mum, but someone else nearby.

He also said how his mother was recently in and out of hospital, and was starting to be on the mend.

“She was starting to feel a bit better after a few months but this incident has just set her back completely,” added Martin.

“At 89 years old it can’t be easy to wake up and see your home vandalised.

“She is just very scared and stressed.

“The graffiti wasn’t aimed at her but you don’t want that at the front of the house. It’s very concerning.”

Martin contacted Shotts Police Station on Tuesday morning and was told to send an email.

But two days later, Martha had still not received a visit from any officer, and Martin had not received any reply.

He added: “I just find it crazy that we are talking about a woman of 89 years of age and nobody has come out to see her yet.

“I want to know what is taking so long.”

Police confirmed to the Wishaw Press that the incident had taken and are appealing to anyone who has informatio­n to come forward.

The spokespers­on continued: “On February 11, a house in Allanton was vandalised with spraypaint.

“We are appealing for witnesses.

“Anyone with informatio­n should to call 101, quoting incident 1836 of 09/02/20.”

Anyone with informatio­n can also contact Crimestopp­ers on 0800 555 111.

Calls are free and your anonymity will be maintained.

 ??  ?? What a mess Martha’s son Martin is furious about the graffiti and has complained about lack of police action
What a mess Martha’s son Martin is furious about the graffiti and has complained about lack of police action
 ??  ?? Stressed The graffiti incident has been worrying Martha
Stressed The graffiti incident has been worrying Martha

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