The harbourmasters in Whitehaven say they are “dismayed” after a lighthouse was damaged a day after it was unveiled.
Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners oversaw the project to bring the North Pier and West Pier lighthouses back to their former glory.
The West Pier lighthouse was officially unveiled on Monday.
Yesterday Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners posted the following on Facebook: “After the fabulous unveiling of the West Pier Lighthouse yesterday and the great coverage and feedback, we are all shattered and dismayed to report that overnight someone, or some people, have vandalised six of the new windows by launching large metal objects at them, completely breaking one window and damaging the frame of another.
“The other four that were attacked have all been cracked or shattered. We expect rough seas and challenges from the elements but not from vandalism. We took on this project with the community in mind for its pride, health and wellbeing. We are unable to comprehend why this would be done. We will not let this deter us and we will replace the windows and continue apace with the work on the North Pier Lighthouse.
“We will be implementing a number of new, permanent and temporary security measures and we are liaising with our local police team on this matter. We would also ask that you, our community, help us however you feel you may be able.
“We are proud of the work that has been done and our thanks again to all those who have been part of the project and those that have supported it. Your messages are very much appreciated and we look forward to unveiling the North Pier Lighthouse next month for you.”
Anyone with any information is asked to contact 101.
