Logging on to MySpace to lament Monkey Pole

November 2008

A new Myspace page has been set up dedicated to finding out who was responsible for cutting down the Monkey Pole, one of the best known landmarks in Wicklow town.

Last weekend vandals used an axe to chop down the pole which was put in place to help sea-rescues.

It was used to mount a breeches buoy for pulling sailors on to dry land.

The wave of disgust felt locally at the destruction of one of the oldest landmarks in town is made clear in a new MySpace group page set up devoted to the Monkey Pole.

One entry says: ‘ This weekend one of our famous landmarks of Wicklow — The Monkey Pole was vandalised... When I first heard of this news a sad feeling came over me.’

Many other entries follow the same lines. However, not everyone was focusing their anger towards those responsible.

One message in particular is scathing toward the local authorities.

‘ The Murrough has been suffering due to erosion for years, an what’s been done?

‘ The same as The Black Castle falling into the sea, f **k all!!!!!! Like usual.’

Gardaí are still investigating the incident and urge anyone with information to contact them.