Council issues warning to Christmas tree vandals

Christmas decoration vandals have been warned they could face prosecution for tampering with installations.

Festive lights have been installed throughout Derry, Strabane, Castlederg, Newtownstewart and Sion Mills with more events planned for this week.

However, Derry City and Strabane District Council say the tree in Strabane town centre has already been targeted several times this season.

Council’s Head of Environment Conor Canning urged people to respect the decorations, he said:

“It’s a shame to see the decorations being vandalised, particularly so soon after the success of the recent Christmas switch-on events.

“It’s not just an attack on the community but it is potentially very dangerous given the electrical equipment involved and the size of the trees Council has erected.

“We would like to remind people that the decorations are there for everyone to enjoy throughout the festive season.

“We would urge everyone to respect this and warn those responsible that action will be taken by the PSNI against anyone engaging in such acts of vandalism.”