Vandals cause extensive damage to city Christmas trees

There has been a series of attacks on trees since switch on ceremonies were held in November.

Mr Canning urged people to respect the decorations, warning of the potential dangers of interfering with them.

It’s the second time the local authority has had to issue a warning following further incidents of vandalism.

Considerable damage has been caused in the last couple of days to the trees in Waterloo Place in Derry and Glenmoran Village outside Strabane.

It brings the total number of reported incidents in Derry City Centre to six while the tree in Strabane town centre was also damaged on the night of the Christmas lights switch on.

The Council Head of Environment urged local people to respect the decorations, warning of the potential dangers of interfering with them.

“Unfortunately since we issued our appeal last week, further damage has been caused to trees in the city and district so we must repeat our appeals for the public to show respect before a serious incident occurs,” said Mr Canning.

“While it may seem harmless, 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.”

The Environment Head added: “We also urge the public to be vigilant of any vandalism and to report any incidents they witness to the PSNI.”