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Christmas Tree Vandalized Hours After Lighting Ceremony

12/13/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A Christmas tree in Shotton Colliery, County Durham, was chopped down between 10pm and 11pm on Wednesday, just hours after its lights were turned on.
The tree had been a festive tradition for over a decade.
It was dedicated to soldiers who died in World War I.
Police believe the act was deliberate and are appealing for witnesses.
Police Constable David Allan condemned the incident as 'mindless vandalism'.

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Story summary

A Christmas tree in Shotton Colliery, County Durham, was chopped down between 10pm and 11pm on Wednesday, just hours after its lights were turned on.
The tree had been a festive tradition for over a decade.
It was dedicated to soldiers who died in World War I.
Police believe the act was deliberate and are appealing for witnesses.
Police Constable David Allan condemned the incident as 'mindless vandalism'.