POLICE have pledged to step up patrols after a second plaque was stolen from a war memorial in Highbridge.

We revealed last week how the Highbridge War Memorial Trust was shocked to discover a plaque dedicated to local war hero Frank Foley at Southwell House and Gardens had disappeared.

But when the Weekly News hit the shelves on Thursday, another plaque, devoted to American soldiers who served in Highbridge and Burnham in the Second World War, also vanished.

Pam Lyes, trust secretary, said: “The plaque was the centrepiece of the war memorial which includes all the names of the soldiers.

“To find out that had gone as well just makes me so upset and angry.

“We have written to the Chief Constable asking for surveillance in the gardens but nothing ever happened.

“I want police to come round at different times of the evening so whoever is causing the vandalism and stealing these plaques has no warning.”

Highbridge community worker Joyce Beard said the plaque was bought by American Bob Jurney, a GI stationed in the town during the war, and was unveiled on the 50th anniversary of D Day in June 1994.

She added: “Bob and his wife came to Highbridge the following year and had their picture taken with the plaque - how can I tell him that it has gone 'missing'?”

Police say they are increasing patrols and have launched a full investigation including door-to-door enquiries and examination of CCTV footage.

Officers will also be speaking to staff at scrap metal yards, and are urging people to report any suspicious activity.