50 toilets destroyed as vandals attack Shropshire showground
Vandals caused £3,000 damage when they smashed up a newly-built toilet block at Shrewsbury's West Mid Showground - days before this year's Shropshire County Show.
More than 50 toilet pans were destroyed in the vandalism at the Berwick Road showground between 3pm on Sunday and 11am yesterday.
Vandals broke every single ceramic pan in the toilet block - which had only recently been repaired after flooding from the River Severn devastated the site three months ago.
Fortunately, a team of offenders from HMP Stoke Heath - who helped to clear up the site after the flooding and who who are getting the site ready for next Saturday's show - were able to help repair the damage.
"Bizarrely whoever did it left the cisterns, sinks and windows," said show trustee Judith Williams.
"They smashed 50 toilet pans, which is every one that was on the site.
"Luckily for us, HMP Stoke Heath have come to our rescue and are providing labour to put them in, with less than 10 days to go to the show.
"It is fair to say that after all we have been through down here, my heart is crying today. Our CCTV cameras are being looked at. It is an inconvenience beyond belief."
The show, which can attract up to 40,000 visitors, opens on Saturday May 24 and Mrs Williams said it would be busines as usual.
"This year we have a record number of trade stands, craft stalls and the amazing Edible Shropshire. There are a huge number of entries in the poultry and livestock classes, and the Horse Show is back too.
"HMP Stoke Heath have been brilliant and have been helping us for weeks and do a brilliant job.
"The show, which had its difficulties in the past, is now on a firm footing, paying back all its creditors, who have been incredibly supportive.
"What with the floods and then this, we have had a lot to contend with, but we are all very positive about the future of the show."
Richard Ewels, spokesman for West Mercia Police said: "Officers are investigating a report of criminal damage at the showground and are appealing for anyone with information to assist them in their enquiry. Up to 60 pans were smashed, causing £3,000 of damage. The damage also led to flooding of the blocks."
Anyone with information should call 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or go to www.crimestoppers-uk.org
