A WOMAN has been charged following damage to flower displays in the centre of Cinderford last week

There was extensive damage caused to floral displays along Cinderford High Street and the surrounding area last Thursday (August 27).

The incident was reported to officers from the Forest North Neighbourhood Policing Team by Cinderford Town Council.

The town council also put an appeal for anyone with information about the damage to contact the police.

Following a report from Cinderford Town Council, officers from the Forest North Neighbourhood Policing Team carried out enquiries, obtaining CCTV evidence and witness statements.

A 47-year-old woman from Coleford was arrested by neighbourhood officers and and charged with criminal damage.

She is due to appear before Cheltenham Magistrates’ Court in October.

PC Briony Bishop of the Forest North Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “We hope this positive action reassures the community of Cinderford that we take reports of antisocial behaviour and criminal damage seriously.

“We will investigate reports and work to bring offenders of this kind of behaviour to justice.”

She also encouraged residents and local businesses to report antisocial behaviour and criminal damage to police.

She said: “Your reports help us build a picture of what is happening in our communities, target our patrols and take positive action where appropriate.

“Thank you to everyone who provided information and assisted officers with this investigation.”

A spokesperson for Cinderford Town Council said: “A lot of time, effort and money goes into keeping Cinderford looking attractive for residents, visitors and local businesses.

“It is incredibly frustrating to see flowers and tubs deliberately damaged by an adult.

“This kind of behaviour is completely unacceptable and spoils the town for everyone.

“We would ask everyone to please respect our town and the work that goes into making Cinderford a place we can all be proud of.”