RESIDENTS are disgusted after a war memorial was vandalised by 'youths' in a remembrance garden yesterday afternoon.

Several acts of vandalism were carried out in Farnworth Park's Garden of Remembrance around 3pm on June 5.

The wooden panels denoting dates of both world wars have been defaced with red spray paint - as well as the metal plaque on the 'altar' which honours Farnworth's men and women who gave their lives in war.

A section of the lawns has also been burnt following a bin fire on Friday night, which has also left damage to the brand new tarmac surrounding the Barnes Memorial.

The Grade II Listed War Memorial and the Barnes Memorial remain untouched.

Cllr Paul Sanders, who represents Farnworth ward, was informed by residents of the incident, and was given a description of the group of 'approximately 12 youths'.

He said: Residents' reaction to this has understandably been one of outrage and deep upset.

"The fact that today is the anniversary of D-Day hurts all the more.

"Residents have been coming forward with information and I would ask that people continue to do so.

"I can confirm that Farnworth councillors remain in constant contact with the Farnworth Neighbourhood Policing Team as they try to counteract this spike in anti-social behaviour we are sadly experiencing."

It is understood that CCTV could exist of group leaving the park and walking up Market Street.

Local residents have taken to social media to vent their anger and frustrations over the incident.

Pauline Willcock said: "This is disgusting. How anyone can do this, no respect for anything or anyone."

Thomas Dickinson added: "This is the saddest thing I've seen this year."

Graham Daubney said: "Absolutely disgusting. This is so disrespectful."

Anyone with information should phone 101 and quote crime reference number CRI/06KK/0016021/21.

Bolton Council's Neighbourhood Services will begin to repair the damage and restore the Garden of Remembrance to its norm next week.