Anger after poppy wreath stolen from Derry city centre war memorial
The wreath was laid on Tuesday evening at the Diamond war memorial by deputy mayor Alderman Niree McMorris, as part of the Battle of Somme commemorations
There is widespread anger in Derry after a poppy wreath was stolen from the city's war memorial.
The wreath was laid on Tuesday evening at the Diamond war memorial by deputy mayor Alderman Niree McMorris, as part of the Battle of Somme commemorations.
Ald McMorris said: "I am devastated to learn that the wreath I lay last night on behalf of our City & District has been stolen from the Cenotaph by youths at approximately 11.30pm.
"This wreath was to commemorate all the men, both Catholic and Protestant who lost their lives to secure our freedom. It is also sickening to note that Laura Gailey the only female on the role of honor was a nurse from our city and these youths have dishonored her service as well as the men’s.
"How are we ever going to have an inclusive city when we can’t even lay a wreath to commemorate the fallen who gave their todays for our tomorrows.
"To the youths that stole the wreath, you stole the remembrance symbol, but the real remembrance is in our hearts and can never be stolen or eradicated.
"I will be reporting this on behalf of our Council to the police for investigation."