THIEVES have thwarted a pensioner's efforts to brighten up a village's derelict Scout hall.
The Howden-le-Wear resident, who has asked not to be named, placed two sets of flower pots outside Craig Hall, in Station Road, which is boarded up awaiting redevelopment.
But he has removed the display after two of the pots were stolen, although he says he will do his best to keep the building from deteriorating into an eyesore.
He said: "I won't give up altogether, but this is bound to be dispiriting. The pots are marked with a security pen so they can be traced."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article