New artwork to celebrate Pride defaced with ‘offensive graffiti’

Artwork installed on a Nottinghamshire skatepark to celebrate Pride Month has been defaced with “offensive graffiti” just days after being completed. The artwork at the Arnot Hill Park bowl was created in collaboration with Skate Nottingham, funded by the UK Government, to celebrate diversity and inclusivity. Gedling Borough Council is now reviewing CCTV footage and working with Nottinghamshire Police to identify the vandals who have daubed the artwork with the graffiti. Patrols by neighbourhood wardens in the area are increasing and continuous CCTV monitoring will be maintained. Councillor Kathryn Fox, the portfolio holder for life chances and vulnerability at Gedling Borough Council, said: “We will not tolerate anti-social behaviour of any kind and we will take action against the people who did this. We will continue to work closely with the youth council to create more opportunities for engagement and to maintain a sense of community pride. Get the latest news straight to your phone by joining us on WhatsApp “We are proud of the skate bowl artwork and want young people to enjoy the beautiful space. Together, we can overcome these challenges and ensure that our public spaces reflect values of inclusivity and respect.” Tom Quigley from Skate Nottingham...