Oakham Bandstand and High Street Bench Targeted in Vandalism Spree

Oakham Bandstand and High Street Bench Targeted in Vandalism Spree

Oakham residents are expressing their frustration and disappointment after two separate incidents of vandalism this week have marred the town's public spaces. The bandstand in Cutts Close, a focal point for community events, has been defaced with red spray paint, this will force Oakham Town Council to allocate taxpayer funds for its clean-up.

This incident follows closely on the heels of another act of vandalism, where a bench outside the Congregational Church on Oakham High Street was also targeted with white spray paint. While the Town Council promptly repainted the bench, the recurring nature of these incidents has raised concerns among local residents and officials.

Cllr Sally-Anne Wadsworth and Cllr Martin Brookes both said, the bandstand, a symbol of Oakham's community spirit, is frequently used for concerts and gatherings, making its defacement particularly disheartening. The red spray paint, now marring the structure, necessitates a professional clean-up, diverting valuable resources from other essential community projects.

Oakham Town Council is now appealing to the public for assistance in identifying the individuals responsible for these acts of vandalism. The Council emphasises the financial burden placed on local taxpayers, as public funds must be used to rectify the damage.

"These acts of vandalism are not only unsightly but also represent a misuse of public funds," stated a spokesperson for Oakham Town Council. "We are deeply disappointed that these incidents have occurred and are determined to hold those responsible accountable."

The Town Council is urging anyone with information about the incidents to contact Leicestershire Police. They are keen to recover the costs associated with the clean-up, ensuring that taxpayer money is used for the benefit of the entire community.

The Town Council spokesperson, hopes that with the public's cooperation, those responsible for these acts of vandalism will be identified and brought to justice, sending a clear message that such behaviour will not be tolerated in Oakham.