"It could have electrocuted a child": No lights on Halton Christmas tree due to 'mindless vandalism'

A note left on the tree by Halton in Bloom and We Are Halton said it would cost more than £500 to repair, which they could "ill afford".

The note read: "We are sad to report that our tree will no longer be lit this year due to a mindless act of vandalism / sabotage.

"The box containing the controls for the lights has been ripped away from the tree and stolen. This left live wires dangling.

"This could easily have electrocuted a child! It has now been made safe."

The note called on anyone with information to approach the police or staff at Lidl in Selby Road, close to where the tree is standing.

The note added: "We wish everyone (except the perpetrators of this act) a Merry Christmas and a very happy and prosperous New Year.

"To the perpetrator(s): May your baubles lose their sparkle and drop off!"

A post on the Halton in Bloom Facebook page added: "We are so sad that this has happened and that a small number of idiots have spoilt it for all the community and are appalled that they could leave a live wire trailing putting people's life at risk.

"However we will be back and with your help raise the money for new lights next year for a bigger and brighter tree and figure out a way to make it tamper proof."