Fury as metal thieves target war memorial

The roof of a landmark war memorial has been stripped by metal thieves in an attack branded "gutting and inexplicable".

The war memorial in Barr Beacon park, Great Barr, was open to the elements today after thieves climbed up 50ft to strip away copper from the roof. It is not yet clear how much it is likely to cost to repair. Ward councillor Chris Towe and deputy leader of Walsall Council, Adrian Andrew, visited the memorial on Beacon Road to inspect the damage.

Councillor Towe said: "I think these people are the lowest of the low to attack such a precious monument.

"It is deeply distressing and very frustrating for the people of Walsall, because this signifies so much to the area. This is not just a meaningless memorial, it represents people who have given the ultimate sacrifice to us by putting their lives on the line. It is very, very upsetting."

He warned scrap merchants: "If people come forward and start trying to sell people this then they must report it to the police immediately.

"We as a borough, will not stand up and take this because all too often these people steal things and then try and get away with it.

"If people come and ask you to buy it, do not. Make sure you call the police straight away."

Councillor Adrian Andrew said: "We want to make sure that these people are caught and punished through the courts."

Council leader Councillor Mike Bird said: "These people are lower than sewer rats. I would suggest that when they're caught, we ship them out to Afghanistan and put them on the frontline in Helmand.

"Maybe then they would appreciate why we honour those who fight for this country and reflect on what they have done." The attack is thought to have happened on Friday night.

Elsewhere £50,000 repairs were needed at the Grade II listed Red House building in Red House Park, Great Barr, after lead and tiles were taken two years ago.

A 6ft barrier was installed at the back of the house in December after reports of anti-social behaviour and vandalism. Walsall Cou0ncil chiefs today said round-the-clock patrols would now be launched to prevent similar raids at the war memorial.