AN act of vandalism has put a dampener on the countdown to Christmas in one Tameside town.
Denton South councillors say all six sets of Christmas lights around the Civic Square have been “deliberately cut”.
The incident has been condemned by members of the community on social media, who branded the person or people responsible as “selfish” and “inconsiderate to everyone”.
One local business, Vault 2 Bar & Bistro, has even offered to replace them as a way of repaying the support they have received from the local community.
Councillors Claire Reid, George Newton and Jack Naylor said the vandalism took place days before the town’s planned Christmas lights switch-on event – which was due to take place last Saturday (December 7) but had to be cancelled due to the adverse weather conditions.
They said police are now investigating and CCTV footage is being reviewed in a bid to catch those responsible.
“This isn’t just upsetting to those of us that invested and installed them in the wet and cold, but it’s a blow to our community and the festive joy we wanted to share,” the councillors said in a joint statement.
“The matter is now with the police. We are reviewing CCTV to identify the culprit.
“If any local businesses can assist with footage or information, we would greatly appreciate your support.
“Denton deserves better than this.”
Anyone who can help can contact the Denton South councillors by sending a message to the ‘Team Denton South’ Facebook page or emailing either jack.naylor@tameside.gov.uk, claire.reid@tameside.gov.uk or george.newton@tameside.gov.uk