Stain on memory of WW1 fallen

Desecrated... war memorial at St Mark’s Church, Heyside.

Vandals have desecrated Heyside’s war memorial only months after its restoration.

The memorial and vestry steps at St Mark’s Church, in Perth Street, Heyside were splashed with red paint or varnish

Only three months ago the church and local community paid to have the memorial — erected in 1925 — cleaned and restored to commemorate the centenary of World War One.

Church warden John Corbishley said church faces a £600 bill to repair the damage.

“Such mindless vandalism shows how some individuals have no respect for those who gave the ultimate sacrifice,” he said.

“The cost of the repairs is galling but the possible irreparable damage caused is of greater concern after the memorial has survived the previous 100 years without incident.”

Royton Councillor Steve Bashforth is considering offering a reward for anyone who has information that could lead to the arrest of any culprits.

Police are appealing for witnesses - call the non-emergency 101 number or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.