Vandals have targeted a piece of artwork commemorating those who died in the Great War – only days after it was unveiled in an Angus town.
Police Scotland is appealing for information after the commemorative artwork was vandalised in the World War One Memorial Garden in Brechin.
The piece is a ceramic horse saddle, created in memory of those who died in World War I – in particular the eight million horses and service animals that also perished in the conflict.
It was only installed on Remembrance Sunday.
A police spokesman said: “The piece took the creator over 100 hours to make, and while it was never intended for sale, would be worth over £4,000 if sold.
“In this week of Remembrance, this incident has understandably angered the local community.
“Fortunately, nothing else in the garden appears to have been damaged, and the saddle itself has been removed for repairs.”
A Facebook fundraiser has already been established by student Karen Elliot, who created the sculpture.
She hopes to have the artwork cast in bronze to protect it from further vandalism.
Railings which will help safeguard the artwork in the future have already been donated following her appeal.
Karen’s Facebook fundraising appeal states: “This morning I was tagged in a post showing the vandalism on my sculpture. I have brought the main part home which can be fixed, however I have decided that I will have it cast in bronze so this will not happen again .
“Railings original to Brechin have been donated this morning to protect the new bronze.
“Please donate a pound or two and I shall have the beautiful memorial garden looking wonderful as it did on the unveiling day.
“I appreciate your support. Love, Karen Elliot.
“Any money left over will be given to Brechin in Bloom and (the) Brechin Community Garden.”
Anyone with any information which could assist the police with their investigation is asked to call 101 or speak with any police officer.
Also, information can be given anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111. Our reference is CR/27765/18.
