Thrapston WW1 memorial vandalism: Man to have alcohol dependency treatment

The head of the silhouette artwork depicting a British World War One soldier was ripped off

A man who ripped the head off a "Tommy" war memorial figure has been told to undergo alcohol dependency treatment and pay £1,000 compensation.

The artwork was disfigured in Thrapston, Northamptonshire in 2020.

Myles Hannah, 25, of no fixed address, had been found guilty of criminal damage by magistrates in Northampton.

Insp Nathan Murray said "damaging a war memorial is a terrible desecration" and he hoped Hannah now understood the "hurt and anger he caused".

As part of his community order, Hannah was told he must complete a 19-day treatment programme.

The statue had stood by the memorial in Oundle Road, Thrapston, since 2018

The Tommy artworks, also known as Silent Soldiers, were created by the Royal British Legion in 2018 to mark 100 years since the end of World War One.

Different designs representing British soldiers appeared across the UK.

The head of the Thrapston Tommy was ripped off on 13 November, two days after Armistice Day and five days after Remembrance Sunday.

Hannah had originally been due to be sentenced last month, but failed to attend court.

An arrest warrant was issued and on Tuesday he was present for the rescheduled hearing.

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Hannah will have to take part in the alcohol dependency treatment for a four-month period prior to 13 December 2023, while a Thinking Skills programme will require him to attend any appointments or take part in any activity required for a maximum of 40 days.

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Insp Murray, sector commander for Wellingborough and East Northants, said: "We know this offence caused a lot of upset within Thrapston, especially as it took place so close to Remembrance Day, and I am pleased the case was able to be brought to court and a conviction secured.

"Damaging a war memorial is a terrible desecration and I very much hope the orders passed against Myles Hannah help him both appreciate the hurt and anger he caused, and to understand how to help himself and make better choices in the future."