£1,000 reward offered in hunt for war memorial plaque thieves

Perthshire butcher Simon Howie has promised a cash reward to anyone who helps police catch thieves who prised metal plaques from a war memorial in Milnathort.

The stone structure recently underwent a £13,000 restoration which included the replacement of commemorative bronze plates bearing the names of war dead.

Three plaques were stolen and a fourth was badly damaged just hours after protective metal fences was taken down on Thursday.

Mr Howie has offered £1,000 to anyone who provides the authorities with information which leads to an arrest and conviction.

Police have welcomed the butcher’s move, as have veterans, politicians and the community group which raised cash for the refurbishment.

It is understood thieves could attempt to offload the bronze plaques at scrap dealers but local businesses which buy and sell metal vowed to alert authorities if they are approached.

The thieves inflicted damage which could cost the council around £8,000 to repair but The Courier has learned that the bronze plaques are only worth about £40 each on the open market.

Police have launched an inquiry into the theft and appealed for information.

Photo by Phil Hannah