MEMORIAL benches which feature the names of Glasgow residents who have died were damaged during Rangers fans Scottish Premiership title celebrations in George Square last might.
Pictures show damage to several memorial benches, placed by families to remember loved ones lost. Some were tipped over with others showing split wood.
Supporters of the Ibrox club took to the square yesterday to celebrate the club’s first title win in ten years, but have been condemned after leaving a trail of destruction.
Video footage from the scene appears to show people jumping on the bench and some have been emblazoned with stickers appearing to be from Rangers fan group 'Union Bears.'
Council staff were spotted removing the damaged benches from the area earlier this morning after a swift clean-up operation.
The Glasgow Times understands that Glasgow City Council are working with families regarding damaged benches.
A spokesman said: "We’re assessing the Square after the weekend, but we are aware that – an addition to a high level of litter, including broken glass bottles - a number of benches were damaged.”
Glasgow City Council's Labour group leader Malcolm Cunning reacted to the damaged benches, calling the behaviour 'criminal' He said: "The behaviour of some Rangers fans on Saturday ranged from the reckless and irresponsible to the clearly criminal.
"Whether it was vandalism, destruction of property or putting the health of so many people at risk during a pandemic, the actions of this minority was completely unacceptable and they should, where appropriate and identifiable, face criminal proceedings.
"Going forward, the Council, the Police and the football community need to look closely at what transpired I order to prevent such disgraceful scenes ever happening again.
Meanwhile, angry locals took to social media to slam fans’ for their behaviour at last night’s celebrations.
Shambles. #GeorgeSquare pic.twitter.com/eKzuGGnOXL
— Amy McIntyre (@amzomac) March 8, 2021
Broken benches bottle and plastic left across George Square
— THE BLACK SALTIRE#FBSI (@80_mcswan) March 8, 2021
This is simply noty acceptable
A major review needs to take place of last nights shameful events pic.twitter.com/vfsDfLyem6
One said: “I'll never ever be able to understand any person that could possibly justify what happened in George Square last night. I don't care what team you support if any (I know I couldn't care less) but the scenes last night were absolutely vile. Something needs to be done about this.”
Another angry resident added: “Very sad to see this morning the destruction of park benches in George Square from yesterday. These benches were given to the people of Glasgow by families dedicated to the memory of their loved ones.”
Are you one of the families who have been affected by the damage to benches? Please get in touch at lauren.gilmour@newsquest.co.uk.
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