VANDALS have destroyed a bench in a memorial garden to the Aycliffe Angels.

The garden, which was unveiled in St Clare's Church, Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, last year, was designed as a tribute to the unsung heroes of the Second World War.

The memorial includes a sculpture depicting two women at the Aycliffe munitions factory, in the 1940s.

It was part of a long-running campaign, spearheaded by The Northern Echo, to gain recognition for the Angels.

Police in Newton Aycliffe have been keeping a close watch on the garden since it was opened in May last year, and damage had been kept to a minimum.

But, between 6.30pm on Friday and 10.30am on Saturday morning, the back rest was ripped off one of the benches.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Newton Aycliffe police, on (01325) 314401