Heartache as vandals cut down lights from Sheffield community Christmas tree

Residents of a Sheffield suburb have expressed their sadness after vandals damaged decorations which adorned their community Christmas tree.
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Over £930 had been raised to put lights on the tree outside Greenhill Library as part of efforts to ‘put a smile on people’s faces’ this Christmas by transforming the area with festive decorations.

The tight-knit neighbourhood usually puts on a decent display every year but they had hoped to make this year’s extra special in defiance of the continuing coronavirus crisis.

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The Greenhill has been left in shock after vandals cut lights from the library Christmas tree. Pictured are some of the Greenhill Christmas lights 2020. (picture: Forget Me Not Urbex / Lucie Keen)The Greenhill has been left in shock after vandals cut lights from the library Christmas tree. Pictured are some of the Greenhill Christmas lights 2020. (picture: Forget Me Not Urbex / Lucie Keen)
The Greenhill has been left in shock after vandals cut lights from the library Christmas tree. Pictured are some of the Greenhill Christmas lights 2020. (picture: Forget Me Not Urbex / Lucie Keen)
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But, Grinch-like criminals have now targeted the library’s Christmas tree display situated in the middle of the area’s main roundabout – cutting down the lights and devastating the community.

A post on the Greenhill Xmas Lights Facebook group read: “I hope whoever cut the lights down at the library got as [sic] much satisfaction as we did putting them up!

“If anyone wants to organise, fundraise and install some new lights that’d be lovely but unfortunately for me I just can’t fit in anymore.”

Residents and others across Sheffield were quick to share their shock and sadness over the news.

Kevin Palmer, one of the co-ordinators of the Facebook group, with some of the Christmas decorations in Greenhill before vandals struckKevin Palmer, one of the co-ordinators of the Facebook group, with some of the Christmas decorations in Greenhill before vandals struck
Kevin Palmer, one of the co-ordinators of the Facebook group, with some of the Christmas decorations in Greenhill before vandals struck
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Joy Ellen said: “This is so sad. We really enjoyed looking at them for the time they were there.”

Kate Armstrong said: “How utterly mean hearted! So sorry for everyone who put the effort into putting them up.”

Rachael Martin added: “Shocking,and mean hearted people to do this. But the houses all around Greenhill look amazing, and my kids think it’s wonderful , take pride in your community spirit Greenhill amazing job this year when it’s really needed.”

It is not the first time vandals have struck the area, with the tree itself having to be replanted by Amey last month after the previous one was vandalised in April.

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But, the resilient Greenhill community seem determined not to let the latest incident dampen their festive cheer.

Residents are now being urged to create their own Christmas decorations to be placed on the library tree in a display of solidarity against those who damaged the lights beyond repair.

For more information or to get involved visit the Greenhill Xmas Lights Facebook page.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.