Christmas Trail in Torbay Vandalized, Authorities Seek Perpetrators

A council leader has described the vandalism of a Christmas trail in Torbay as an act of “mindless behaviour.” Torbay Council reported that “a small number of people” caused damage to Christmas lights at the Bay of Lights Illuminations, a 1.5 mile (2.4km) trail located in Torquay. The council’s anti-social behaviour team is collaborating with Devon and Cornwall Police and other associated organizations to review CCTV footage and pinpoint the individuals involved. Councillor David Thomas, who leads Torbay Council, informed the BBC: “We’ve put this show on really for our residents, for the tourists and visitors and as they say, the show must go on.” He further stated: “Our CCTV is focussing on that area [where the Christmas display is] because really as a council, as a community, we’re not going to tolerate this mindless behaviour.” The trail commenced on Friday, and the council characterized its opening weekend as “fantastic and busy.” The authority indicated that contractors would carry out repairs for the damage. It also stated: “We are introducing more proactive measures along the trail to prevent any further damage. “We would encourage anyone who witnesses damage to any of the installations to report it immediately to the police.” Future Technical Solutions, the company responsible for the display, posted on social media that vandals had scaled Christmas trees, a comet, a present, and “pulled up flowers,” in addition to creating an “issue with Holly Octopus.” The firm further commented: “We as a team are overwhelmed with the support we are receiving from you and the decent general public. “This has brought a smile back on our faces after feeling totally disheartened.” The trail is scheduled to be illuminated daily from 16:30 GMT through 2 January.