'Abhorrent act of vandalism' as Queen’s memorial is damaged

Wednesday, 21 December 2022 at 16:43

"They too are distressed to see tax payers’ money wasted"

A living memorial to the late Queen Elizabeth II in Coalville has been destroyed by vandals.

North West Leicestershire District Council (NWLDC) installed a collection of trees in Coalville Park to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022. Now, only three months after the monarch’s passing, the trees and memorial plaque have been damaged.

Following the vandalism, NWLDC cleared the damage, installed extra security cameras and reported the incident to the police.

More than eight trees, planters and benches in Coalville Park have been damaged or stolen in 2022, costing NWLDC more than £1,200 in repairs, along with the need for a new memorial plaque for the Platinum Jubilee.

Councillor Andrew Woodman, NWLDC Portfolio Holder for Community Services, said: “This abhorrent act of vandalism has devastated our parks team who worked hard to install the trees and create a lasting memorial to commemorate the late Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

“We know residents really appreciate our efforts to create more green spaces to enjoy, and they too are distressed to see tax payers’ money wasted when planting is ruined.

“If anyone has any information about these mindless acts we would encourage them to speak with Leicestershire Police, quoting the crime numbers 43354-22-3333-00 and 22000739982.”

More from Local News

Deadline approaching for Leicestershire secondary school applications

Parents and carers have until Saturday (31 October) to apply for Year 7 secondary school places in Leicestershire for September 2027.
Eleven arrested in Leicestershire vehicle crime crackdown

Eleven people have been arrested, six vehicles seized and £5,000 in cash recovered in Leicestershire as part of a national operation targeting vehicle crime.
Leicestershire recycling centres launch ReHome Zones for unwanted household items

All 13 household waste recycling sites across Leicestershire now have ReHome Zones, allowing residents to give unwanted items in good condition a second life instead of sending them for disposal.
Hinckley Leisure Centre Car Park to be closed for one day

Hinckley Leisure Centre Car Park to be closed for the day on 20th October 2026 for large steel sections to be delivered for the next stage of the improvement works
Police investigate seven courier fraud reports across Leicestershire

Police are urging residents to warn older relatives, friends and neighbours about courier fraud after seven reports across Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland. Victims are being targeted by callers pretending to be police officers or bank staff.
Four men bailed after Heather firearms incident

Three more men have been arrested in connection with a suspected firearms discharge in Heather. All three, along with a fourth man arrested earlier, have been released on bail.
Police seek to identify three women after shop theft in Ibstock

Police are appealing for information after items including soft toys, candles, supplements and razor blades were stolen from a shop on Ashby Road in Ibstock.
Arrest in connection with Heather firearms incident

Arrest in connection with Heather firearms incident A man was arrested on Saturday (10 October) on suspicion of possessing a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.