Christmas reindeer repaired after vandalism

The reindeer in Derry has now been repaired

A reindeer Christmas decoration in the centre of Londonderry has been reinstated after being damaged by vandals.

Derry City and Strabane District Council said the reindeer, one of a pair in Guildhall Square, had been targeted in the latest of "a number of incidents of vandalism in recent weeks".

The council said it has been fixed and is back on display, adding that anyone caught vandalising the city centre decorations would be "held responsible".

It is the fourth consecutive year the decorations in the centre of Londonderry have been vandalised.

The reindeers are among a collection of decorations in the city centre

"Damaging these ornaments comes at a cost to everyone—not to mention the serious risk of injury—and those who engage in this kind of anti-social behaviour will be caught and will be held responsible," said a council spokesperson.

"While the reindeer has now been repaired, we want to ensure the city centre looks its best as we approach Christmas, so we would really appreciate everyone's cooperation over the coming days."

The council say recent incidents are 'antisocial'

Last year vandals partially stripped a giant Christmas tree in Guildhall Square of its baubles, while in previous years the local council said the decorations in Derry were being targeted "on daily basis."

BBC News NI has asked the Police Service of Northern Ireland if they are investigating recent incidents.