King Charles Place in St John's targeted by vandals

And the incident has raised concerns over anti-social behaviour throughout the area.

Colin and Ann Fitzgerald, who run St John’s Post Office, take it upon themselves to decorate King Charles Place for Christmas every year.

Colin and Ann Fitzgerald decorated the shop for the King's coronation last year (Image: Post Office)

But on Sunday, as they were heading to work to get the shop ready for the New Year, they found the decorations had been trashed.

“The top of the tree had been broken off and all of the plant pots had been tipped over,” said Mr Fitzgerald.

“It’s just so disappointing that someone would do this. We make an effort every year to put the tree up and the lights, to make it more welcoming for people and then this sort of thing happens.”

In true postmaster style, Mr Fitzgerald has patched up the broken Christmas tree with gaffer tape and biros, and says he will attempt a more permanent repair job when the decorations come down later this week.

He said it had been a while since anything had happened to the decorations in King Charles Place.

“Occasionally we’ve had a bit of an issue but nothing major,” he said. “Five years ago the tree was knocked over but that was just young kids hanging around.

“Generally speaking, though, I am a bit concerned - a lot of undesirable activity goes on in the St John’s area - a lot of drinking on the benches in the churchyard, people hanging around and looking for mischief, which may be a bit of a generalisation but there is no help from the local police, who don’t seem to be patrolling.”

PC Haines from West Mercia Police’s St John’s Safer Neighbourhoods Team said: “We take anti-social behaviour very seriously and understand the concern it brings to our local community. 

“Our team are working closely with the library to support them with anti-social behaviour they have experienced and St John’s church to tackle the issue of people consuming alcohol on the grounds.

“We have provided them with a direct line so they can easily report any issues they face.  

“We have adjusted our patrol strategy accordingly and there will be an increase in the number of officers visible on foot patrol in the area.

“We would urge people to report anti-social behaviour via online or by calling 101. Alternatively, information can be shared anonymously with the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or by visiting www.crimestoppers-org.uk.”