The colourful Christmas present display which has been lighting up Boots Corner in Cheltenham has been vandalised.

The framework for the feature has been damaged beyond repair. 

Supplier Blachere Illuminations was on site yesterday, removing the present display. It is being replaced by an illuminated fountain display.

Tracey Crews, director for planning at Cheltenham Borough Council, said: ''This senseless act is really disappointing. We've had really positive feedback about the lights and we ask the community to be our eyes and ears in helping us to protect what we've invested in.''

The new festive LED lights, including the Boots Corner display and the exciting programme of events, have been delivered in collaboration between the borough council and BID (Business Improvement District).

Kevan Blackadder, BID director, added: "Both the businesses and the public have been delighted with the improvements we have introduced this year. 

"It is such a shame that the Boots Corner display has been damaged in this way.

"We have worked with our suppliers today to find a replacement at short notice and it will be in place when the lights go on this evening."

The council will be actively working with the police to catch whoever is responsible for the damage. It is hoped that CCTV imaging will assist with this process.

If anyone can help with the investigation or is witness to any further acts of vandalism, please call the non-emergency police number, 101.

Picture caption: The Christmas light display before and after the vandalism