A FORMER mayor has spoken of his devastation after a town’s Christmas tree was targeted in a “mindless” act of vandalism.

The tree that stands in Aldeburgh High Street had its lights stolen overnight between Monday and yesterday morning.

Police are now investigating the incident, which also caused extensive damage to the tree.

Last night Jimmy Robinson, who organises the town’s Christmas lights on behalf of Aldeburgh Business Association, said he was hugely disappointed.

“To be honest I’m devastated,” he said. “A lot of work went in to putting this all together so that it could be enjoyed by the whole community. But now all that has been ruined by a mindless act of vandalism.

“All the lights have been ripped out of the tree and branches have been torn off as well. It’s hugely disappointing that anyone could do this.

“Unfortunately I don’t think we’ll be able to get any more up - there aren’t many other sets of lights around. The damage is irreparable.

“Apart from that there is also a huge safety concern - it was live electricity. Whoever did it is lucky they weren’t electrocuted.”

A spokeswoman for Suffolk Constabulary confirmed they were investigating the incident, which is believed to have happened some time between 8pm on Monday and 8am yesterday.

“We would ask anyone who may have any information, or who saw anything suspicious, or who knows who might have done this to get in touch as soon as possible,” she said.

Anyone that can help can contact Pc Christopher Neale at Suffolk police’s Crime Investigation Bureau on 01473 613500.