Residents in Crawley were furious after a Christmas grinch stole baby Jesus from the town’s nativity scene, a figurine of a donkey was also taken in the despicable theft.
Crawley’s nativity scene has been in place every Christmas for 60 years with residents claiming the disgraceful actions having destroyed the heart of their festive celebrations.
Speaking to the Crawley and Horley Observer, residents Jeanette and Kevin said: “I’ve been to see the nativity scene every year since I was born in Crawley.
“No-one has ever vandalised it before. It’s terrible.
“Someone has taken the baby Jesus.”
A spokesperson for the council said: “This sort of mindless vandalism beggars belief and has rightly angered local residents.”
Late last night the Spotted in Crawley Facebook group said: “We received various messages with the same name and sightings of a group with these items. A few hours later, they were found dumped in the Memorial Gardens, and despite some small repairs needed, will be back on display soon.
The Baby Jesus
Spotted In Crawley / Facebook