Thieves have failed in their attempt to steal Christmas in Penryn after going on a rampage and attacking the town’s Christmas trees.

A 6ft tree was taken from outside MJ Hair, while a 7ft tree in the Memorial Garden was pulled down. Two lighters were found next to |it, suggesting an attempt to then burn it.

Despite this, Penryn was a place of joy on Saturday when the town’s festive lights display was switched on.

Chairman of the lights committee, Michael Moore, has been left angry at the attempts to ruin proceedings, however, saying: “It is absolutely disgusting that they go into the Memorial Garden and do something like that. The flag pole rope was cut; they took the chain from the entrance to the bowling green as well.”

Mr Moore even had his hammer stolen while putting up the lights. He left it close to one of the Christmas tree tubs, walked down the road and realised he did not have it – but in the short time before someone returned to collect it, the hammer had gone.

Mr Moore urged anyone with information about any of these incidents to contact the police on the 101 number.

“They will find the crime number and attach any information to that, so we can find these nasty little people, or person, who’s done this.

“They’re ruining the enjoyment for thousands of people walking through,” he added.

Mr Moore also put out an appeal for more volunteers to help in the putting up and taking down of the lights, warning that there was a risk it might not go ahead in the future.

Currently the eldest volunteer is 85 and the majority are over the age of 50. “We really need some young blood or committed older folk to come onboard and ease the strain on the others, who might not feel well but still come out so as not to let the team down,” he said.

To offer help call Mr Moore on 01326 375910.