VANDALS have attacked the war memorial in Farnworth again, just 12 months after thieves stole commemorative plaques.

The stonework and surrounding wall has been damaged by vandals with hammers and sprayed with graffiti.

The attack follows last summer's vandalism when large bronze plaques, dedicated to war veterans, were stolen after being sawn off the memorial.

Farnworth councillor Noel Spencer inspected the latest damage and has condemned the vandals.

He said: "It's disgusting that someone could spray graffiti and cause damage to a war memorial. I find it difficult to understand their mentality.

"We've got a problem with gangs of teenagers meeting in the park on a nightly basis.

"I've spoken to the police who find it equally abhorrent and are investigating."

Last August, the theft caused upset among the town's veterans as offenders stole the plaque with the names of soldiers who lost their lives in the First and Second World Wars.

Scrap metal dealers were urged to contact police if they were offered the plaques.

Last year, names of servicemen and woman were laminated on boards and placed on the memorial on Remembrance Sunday.

Replacement plaques are being prepared and councillors are hoping to invite a special guest for an unveiling ceremony before this year's Remembrance Sunday.

Officials at the Mayor's office have written a letter to Buckingham Palace, addressed to The Queen, inviting a dignitary to Farnworth.

Cllr Spencer added: "We hope someone will come but we are still awaiting a response."