A COUNCILLOR is urging people to respect the town's history following 'sickening behaviour'.

Cllr Mike Evans, of Shotton Town Council, said he was disgusted over recent acts of vandalism in his town.

He told the Leader that the Henry Weale memorial garden has been defaced, showing a lack of respect and dignity.

Henry Weale (known as Harry) was born on October 2, 1897, at Ninehouses on Brook Road in Shotton and was awarded the VC.

Cllr Evans said: "It was sickening behaviour. We've reported issues of anti-social behaviour in this area a few times. We've had the bushes cut down around the front but it's behind the bushes.

"Needle wrappers, cans of alcohol, human excrement, I really don't understand it.

"It should be treated with respect and dignity, that's what it's there for. The man served the country and I just think to myself, hang on a minute where's your respect? People sit down and gather their thoughts, they shouldn't have to see that.

"I was saddened and sickened to see that people could treat something like that with so much contempt and disrespect.

"The garden is a celebration of Harry Weale who was awarded the VC and should be treated with respect and dignity and not be dishonoured in this vile way."

The Leader:

Cllr Evans said there has also been issues with waste bins overflowing between Victoria Road and Rowden Street.

A plaque on the wall by the Steel Man at the entrance to Rowley's Drive has also been stolen.

The Shotton councillor added: "It's a massive part of the town's history, and it's just vanished.

"Deeside grew up in the steelworks, everything is built around it. I was just speechless."

The Leader has previously reported that North Wales Police pledged more patrols in hotspot areas following repeated reports of anti-social behaviour.

Inspector Gareth Cust, of the North Flintshire policing team, said these incidents show a lack of respect, adding: "We are grateful to Councillor Evans reporting issues in Shotton. These incidents show a complete lack of respect for the local area and community.

"Local officers will review the incidents for any evidential opportunities and will increase patrols in the area.

"We would urge anyone with information to contact us in confidence regarding the matter."