Outrage as Hornchurch war memorial vandalised by low life thugs.

Residents in Hornchurch are angry and outraged after learning that their much loved and respected war memorial has been vandalised.

The memorial is outside of St Andrew’s church in the centre of Hornchurch and a well known feature of the town. Yet, Saturday evening thugs took it upon themselves to not only smash the concrete but also vandalise the crosses and wreaths that had been laid on it.

Chair of Havering Residents Association Bryan Vincent told the Havering Daily:

“We are appalled at how anyone could do this. It shows that sadly there are individuals out there who have zero respect for our community.

“The Reverend Ken noticed the damage on Sunday morning and notified Carol who lives opposite and works for the British Legion.

“The wreaths were scattered all over the floor and the concrete has been smashed.

“We are fuming at what has happened and are in the process of setting up a crowd funding to provide money to have our memorial restored. We are also going to be donating some funding ourselves.”

Councillor Paul Middleton told the Havering Daily:

“I received notification of vandalism against the War Memorial outside St Andrews Church, Hornchurch Monday morning. 

I am left speechless that someone has attacked the memorial, a memorial that is a place to help remember the people of Hornchurch who sacrificed their lives to fight for the freedoms enjoyed by everyone today. 

I do not understand why someone would attack such a landmark. It is a totally senseless act of vandalism. 

It appears as if the monument was attacked by hammers or some blunt instrument damaging the stone. 

The crosses planted by residents in memory of the sacrifices made by so many were also trampled. 

Hornchurch Resident’s Association Chairman, Bryan Vincent was the person who alerted me. 

By the time I saw the monument the area had been cleared of debris and made to look as good as possible. 

I wish to thank those who cleared the area. They did an outstanding job

Chairman, Bryan Vincent, Cllr O’Sullivan and Cllr Middleton will be working with the British Legion and the church to arrange a fundraising page to repair the damage. 

We will need to arrange quotes for the work and see what needs to be done before we can ask for donations. 

If anyone saw the vandalism happening or has any information that might be helpful, please contact the local SNT police SNTKD-StAndrews@met.police.uk

If you see a crowdfunding opportunity to help restore the memorial, please give generously. “