Third silent soldier vandalised

The latest vandalised soldier

A third silent soldier has been vandalised, this time the one standing next to Touchstones in Rochdale centre.

The soldiers, erected as part of the Borough’s commemoration of the First World War centenary, have been kicked over and bent in Middleton, Castleton and now Rochdale.

https://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/121720/castleton-soldier-silhouette-vandalised

Paul Ellison, who helped create the Castleton memorial and carefully bent the soldier back into shape after discovering the damage, also straightened the latest soldier when passing.

He said: “I can't believe again that some mindless idiot has disrespectfully done this to a Silent Soldier next to Touchstones in Rochdale. This is again unacceptable behaviour! I've straightened back the soldier without any damage. If anyone knows who’s done this awful act, please report to Rochdale Borough Council or Police on 101.”

Martin Taylor, head of environmental management at Rochdale Borough Council, said: “I am dismayed and disgusted at this second act of vandalism against our soldier silhouettes in less than a week. It shows nothing but disrespect to our veterans and their family and friends. The memorials are a place for people to reflect and remember, so it’s shocking they have been targeted in this mindless manner.

“We are working with the police to bring these vandals to justice as quickly as possible. If you have any information regarding the culprits, please contact the police.”