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Christmas reindeer repaired after vandalism

Derry and Strabane District Council a christmas reindeer decoration lies on its side in Derry's Guildhall Square. It is broken off its plinth. A identical reindeer remains standing. Both are displayed to pull a sleigh that can be seen in the background in front of the city's walls decorationDerry and Strabane District Council
The reindeer in Derry has now been repaired

A reindeer Christmas decoration in the centre of Londonderry has been reinstated after being damaged by vandals.

Derry City and Strabane District Council said the reindeer, one of a pair in Guildhall Square, had been targeted in the latest of "a number of incidents of vandalism in recent weeks".

The council said it has been fixed and is back on display, adding that anyone caught vandalising the city centre decorations would be "held responsible".

It is the fourth consecutive year the decorations in the centre of Londonderry have been vandalised.

Derry and Strabane District Council Two illuminated reindeer decoration are positioned behind a civic Christmas tree in Derry which is also lit up. The Guildhall is in the backgound. A number of people are gathered around the decorations.Derry and Strabane District Council
The reindeers are among a collection of decorations in the city centre

"Damaging these ornaments comes at a cost to everyone—not to mention the serious risk of injury—and those who engage in this kind of anti-social behaviour will be caught and will be held responsible," said a council spokesperson.

"While the reindeer has now been repaired, we want to ensure the city centre looks its best as we approach Christmas, so we would really appreciate everyone's cooperation over the coming days."

Derry and Strabane District Council The Christmas decorations outside Derry's Guildhall are fully illuminated. There is a crowd standing around watchingDerry and Strabane District Council
The council say recent incidents are 'antisocial'

Last year vandals partially stripped a giant Christmas tree in Guildhall Square of its baubles, while in previous years the local council said the decorations in Derry were being targeted "on daily basis."

BBC News NI has asked the Police Service of Northern Ireland if they are investigating recent incidents.