Candidate's election campaign posters vandalised

A Liberal Democrat candidate's campaign posters have been damaged in the run-up to the election.

Posters in the South Suffolk constituency promoting Tom Bartleet were vandalised according to his election agent Rain Welham-Cobb.

Mr Welham-Cobb said more than eight banners were targeted in the last week and cameras installed to monitor them were reportedly stolen.

Suffolk Police said it was aware and encouraged people to report similar incidents.

"It's very concerning," Mr Welham-Cobb explained.

"I think it's a poor attempt at trying to suppress democracy.

"These banners are paid for with money from donors who are local people who want to see positive change.

"It's very sad to see them destroyed in the way they have been."

The posters, placed along roads across the constituency, have been cut as well as graffitied.

Mr Welham-Cobb said they were important for those in the community who did not have social media to follow campaigns.

"I think banners do have an effect, they help build momentum and support," he said.

"Not all of our voters are on social media so absolutely they have an effect and impact.

"They're a positive way for local residents to express their support for a local candidate."

A spokesperson for Suffolk Police said the force was aware of three incidents to Lib Dem posters on the roadside of the B1070 and A1071 in Newton and Hadleigh.

"Response officers in these areas have been made aware," they added.

"If people are aware of further similar incidents please report them to us."

You can see a full list of candidates standing in South Suffolk here.

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