Phoenix Trail Art Damaged By Vandals

A HIGHLY acclaimed circular bench, recently opened by Boris Johnson MP, on Thame?s Phoenix Trail, has been vandalised.
Both fire and a heavy implement similar to an axe, was used to destroy about one quarter of the bench, sometime over the weekend preceeding Christmas.
Thame Police are anxious for any information about those responsible for the wilful damage of this work of art that was enjoyed by young and old alike as a social space or somewhere to rest. They can be contacted via Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
The green oak bench was made by Richard Stump, ex-design student from Rycotewood College and awarded ?Best In Show? at the college?s Summer Exhibition 2004. Prior to its installation by the old Thame Railway station, the bench was exhibited at ?The New Designers 2004? exhibition, in London.
The Mayor of Thame has described the attack as “Outrageous”.

NB Over 20 people helped with a mass clear-up of the Phoenix Trail last Sunday, January 9, when as well as several bags of litter, several washing machines, cookers and supermarket trolleys were cleared away.

Some local people use the Trail as a dumping ground for old household rubbish, despite the fact that the District Council will remove such items for a small charge of