Police hunt 'scum' who left human waste on war memorial

Residents arriving to pay their respects on High Melton’s memorial’s plinth were devastated to find the waste and had no choice but to continue with the wreath-laying service.

Police have described the desecration as “abhorrent” and a hunt is now underway to find the perpetrator.

A spokesman for High Melton Parish Council said: “Residents were both saddened and disgusted by the incident especially coming as it did immediately prior to Remembrance Sunday.

“Whatever the reason for this incident an apology, no matter how given, is appropriate from the individual concerned.

“The sacrifice made by our armed forces both past and present must not be forgotten and it is both appropriate and reassuring to see the increase in attendance at Remembrance Day Services throughout the country.”

He added: “If the incident was a deliberate desecration of the war memorial then it is to be deplored as an insult to all the service personnel who have given their lives in both world wars and in the subsequent wars and conflicts up to, and including the present day.

“The thought that it was not deliberate is reassuring nevertheless whatever the motive the end result was the same.”

The war memorial had been washed down on Saturday afternoon in anticipation of the Remembrance Service. The incident is understood to have taken place some time overnight.

High Melton resident, Cllr Jonathan Wood, said he was “utterly shocked” by the incident.

The Sprotbrough representative said: “I think who ever did this should be flogged. Getting fed and clothed in prison would be too good for this person. The punishment would not fit the crime.

“This is a place where we remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice so we can live in the freedom we are accustomed to.

“The word scum doesn’t go far enough.”

A spokesman for the Royal British Legion said: “The Legion is saddened to hear of this senseless incident. 

“War memorials honour the memory of the British Armed Forces who have made the ultimate sacrifice and those who defend the freedom we enjoy.”

Doncaster Chief Insp Neil Thomas said that officers were reviewing CCTV evidence and making enquiries.

He added: “It is unclear at this time whether this was a deliberate act. We have several lines of enquiry and should we identify a culprit, I can assure the community we will deal with them robustly.”

Anyone with any information should call South Yorkshire Police on 101 quoting incident number 1208 of November 11 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.