Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) is defined as ‘acting in a manner that has “caused or was likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress to one or more persons not of the same household” as the perpetrator’.
Vandalism is defined as ‘action involving deliberate destruction of or damage to public or private property’.
Clearly, as can be seen, the damage caused to this bench is, without doubt, “an act of mindless vandalism” and whoever is responsible should face the full consequences of this criminal act.
Thankfully, a number of residents have offered to help repair the bench, so it should be useable for the upcoming memorial service and commemorations taking place on November 11th to remember those who have given their lives in the service of our country and especially on this the, 100th year since the end of the Great War.
Unfortunately, there is an increase in this type of vandalism around the village as well as an upsurge in ASB. The Parish Council continue to work closely with the police who are well- aware of the problem and are working with the local schools to address the issues.
By way of assistance the Parish Council have suggested to the police that they should organise a public meeting to ensure that the local people are kept fully aware of the recent developments, the actions taken to date and future initiatives to combat this unacceptable escalation.
Kenn Griffiths
Chairman Werrington Parish Council.