VANDALS struck at a popular woodland walk damaging signs and stealing a commemorative plaque.

North Yorkshire Police say that some time between April 10 and 12 the signs around the woodland walk near to the pond in Maltongate in Thornton-le-Dale were damaged. A commemorative plaque was also stolen at the same time.

A police spokesman said: "We are requesting the public’s assistance to help establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

"Anyone with information that could assist the investigation should contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 2, and ask for Louise Neville-Beck. You can also email louise.neville-beck@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk If you wish to remain anonymous, you can pass information to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

"Please quote the North Yorkshire Police reference number 12210096537/ 12210096531."