Vandalised memorial bench restored at Highdown Recreation Ground

A memorial bench at Highdown Recreation Ground in Worthing has been restored after large sections were deliberately sawn off during a recent unauthorised encampment.

Worthing Borough Council’s parks team repaired the bench with new varnished timber, freshly painted sections and a refurbished memorial plaque. The council said the damage had left the place of remembrance unusable for people honouring a loved one and other visitors to the recreation ground.

The recreation ground was occupied by an unauthorised encampment in June, growing to around 25 caravans by early July before being vacated following a notice from West Sussex County Council. Other damage and waste were reported at the site afterwards, prompting calls for stronger access controls, while the council said it would continue to review possible prevention measures.