Community helps pay for new Carronshore War Memorial flagpole following 'despicable' vandalism

The mast, which was flying a Union Flag at Carronshore War Memorial, was deliberately damaged in mid-April.

The culprits then threw the pole onto a main road – prompting a police investigation.

An online fundraising page launched in the aftermath of the vandalism to help cover the costs of the re-installation gathered more than £1000.

Carronshore Heritage Forum (CHF), whose members oversaw the creation of the lasting legacy to the village’s First and Second World War soldiers, is “delighted” with the support it has received.

A spokesperson said: “We are glad to inform the local community of Carronshore and beyond that the war memorial has now been returned to its former glory.

“The new flag pole was installed and the Union Flag unfurled. The GoFundMe page that was set up to help replace the damaged flagpole and flag has been closed and we are delighted to announce that our target of £800 was surpassed and the final total of £1050 was raised.

“After GoFundMe fees were deducted, the sum of £1004 has been handed over to the Carronshore Heritage Forum to cover the cost of replacing the damaged flagpole and Union Flag.

“Any monies left over will go towards upgrading security on the War Memorial and help with the upkeep. Once again we would like to thank everyone who helped reach that magical amount.”

Speaking last month, Graham Wright, who built part of the monument for free, vowed to cough up cash to help catch the culprits.

He said: “Someone has taken a hatred towards the Union Jack. This isn’t about religion, colours or creed.

“To do that kind of thing is absolutely disgusting. You can’t go any lower than that.

“I said I was willing to pay £2000 to get them caught because myself and my grandfather are ex-serving soldiers. This is about our grandfathers and great-grandfathers who fought for us.

“You’ve got to look after people who’ve fought and died for this country. It infuriates me somebody would do that. It’s despicable.”

A Police Scotland spokeswoman said: “Inquiries have concluded and no-one has been arrested.

“Should any further information be received it will be assessed and followed up accordingly.”

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