A HANDMADE bench created for people to remember loved ones lost to Covid has been trashed for the second time in a month.

The seat on the water's edge at Winsford Flashes was wrenched from the ground and tossed aside.

Empty cans, joints and cigarette butts had been left scattered on the ground.

The reckless vandalism has incensed residents.The bench was wrecked in a similar way only a few weeks ago.

"It was pure aggression," said Steve Edwards, who runs Winsford Litter Project and discovered the damaged bench yesterday morning, Tuesday and suspects a group of teenagers seen misbehaving in the area were responsible.

"They pulled big six inch bolts out of the ground and tipped it over.

"It makes me so sad. So many of us are trying to improve Winsford, cleaning it up to make it a nicer place, and yet someone can kick this over. I just don't understand it.

"They even pulled the sign off the tree which explained that the bench was set up to commemorate those who have lost their lives to Covid."

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The bench has now been moved to a safer place out of town.

"The man who made this bench is so stressed constantly checking it that he has decided to move it," said Steve. "He didn't feel there was anywhere in Winsford safe enough."

Residents vented their anger and disappointment on social media.

Philippa Bolton said: "Such a shame. We loved the bench and sat on it daily on our dog walks."

Sharon Ledwards added: "Loved resting on this bench on recent Sunday walks. The view across the river was beautiful. So sad that the actions of some disrespectful people can ruin something so many could have enjoyed."

Angela Gormley said: "So sad. It made my day when I seen that bench for the first time. It was such a lovely tribute."

Sarah Eloise added: "What a crying shame. I was just enjoying the sunshine there the other week and was looking forward to sitting with a book or sketchpad in the summertime.

"Whoever built it, thank you for such a lovely tribute and pleasant place to sit."

Debbie Williams said: "Such a shame. Was looking at it yesterday thinking how nice for anybody to sit and enjoy the water."

Lesley Beeley added: "I have seen so many people sat on this bench. What a shame."