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Taunton rainbow pathway cleared up after vandalism

BBC Rainbow pathway in TauntonBBC
The white paint has now been removed from the rainbow pathway

A rainbow path in a town centre has been cleared up after being vandalised with white paint.

The walkway at Goodland Gardens in Taunton, Somerset, was painted in bright colours in 2021.

Taunton Town Council said the recent damage was a "potential environmental hazard" and an "eyesore".

A fundraiser to help restore the path has raised almost £2,000 and will now go towards helping to maintain the path.

Rainbow walkway covered in white paint
The pathway was vandalised last week and was reported to the police

Director for Taunton Pride, Rob Ewers, said: "Unfortunately the white paint vandalism has really damaged the colours of the rainbow and you can now see the concrete coming through.

"We're in talks with the town council about installing CCTV so it can cover this general area and keep an eye on any further vandalism.

"It is sad that it's come to this - but we think it's just one individual who did this as Taunton in the majority is really welcoming to everyone."

Rob Ewers stood in front of a rainbow pathway
Rob Ewers from Taunton Pride said the vandalism was "disappointing"

The 62m (203ft) path will be fully repainted in the Pride and Progress colours, which include brown and black to reflect ethnic diversity.

The colourful paint was meant to last for 15 years without the need for maintenance.

The vandalism has been reported to Avon and Somerset Police.

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