The statue of Queen Victoria on Southend seafront has been vandalised once again.
The monarch’s statue in Clifftown Parade, Southend, has pointed out over the estuary for over a century but became the target of vandals in recent years and in the latest attack the statue’s forefinger was snapped off.
Southend Council had enlisted specialist firm Basildon Stone to transform the 119-year-old landmark from her previously weathered appearance. In April, council staff also replaced the statue’s nose, hands and missing sceptre at a cost of £3,000
Sadly, yobs have disfigured the statue once more, leaving the council to foot the bill once more.
Southend historian Ian Yearsley said: “It’s disappointing that one of the most iconic statues in the town has been targeted in this way.
“The design of the statue with its outstretched arm sadly lends itself to that type of vandalism.”
Mr Yearsley added: “Its a shame thought that people can’t respect the heritage of the town.
“After the refurbishment it looked superb so its disappointing it’s been targeted so soon.”
The statue was presented to Southend in 1897 by the then mayor, Bernard Wiltshire Tolhurst, to mark Queen Victoria’s diamond jubilee.
Southend Council is appealing for information to track down the vandal who caused the damage, which was reported on Friday.
A member of the public collected he pieces of the finger from the ground but unfortunately, not enough of the finger remains to reattach it.
Ann Holland, councillor responsible for culture, tourism and the economy, said: “It was Queen Victoria who signed the Royal Charter in 1892, giving Southend its Borough status. It is extremely disappointing that the statue has yet again been vandalised. Restoring the statue is a technical and costly task, and that is a cost that has to be shared by all residents through their council tax.”
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