Thatcham flood pond vandalised

Damage will cost thousands of pounds and put lives at risk

Defences designed to protect Thatcham from flooding have been hit by vandals.

Handrails and drainage structures that provide safe access for maintenance of the flood attenuation pond off Cold Ash Hill have been vandalised several times over the last year.

West Berkshire Council said the damage would cost more than £6,000 to repair and that the vandals were putting their lives at risk.

Stuart Clark, West Berkshire Council's Principal Engineer said: "This whole area is a flood defence structure, it is not a public open space or amenity. The pond is a valuable asset that cost around £1 million to build and serves a very serious purpose, which is to protect people's homes. Members of the public should not be entering the area at any time."

See next week's Newbury Weekly News for more.