Vandals caused a chemical spill after upending portable toilets in a Lockerbie park.
Organisers of Lockerbie Riding of the Marches had to put up a warning notice on their Facebook page after the incident, which is believed to have happened on Saturday evening just before the massed bands and beat the retreat.
Eye witnesses saw a group of eight “young lads” running out of the Dumfries Road gate of McJerrow Park, which hosted Saturday’s gala day turn-up.
A statement from the gala committee said: “We are saddened to report that the portable toilets we provided for our gala day turn up have been vandalised.
“We are dealing with this but there has been a chemical spill so can any dog walkers please keep your dogs on their leads and parents be vigilant with your children until this has been properly cleaned.
“What a disappointing finish to a wonderful gala day.”
The vandalism prompted condemnation from residents and gala supporters, who had enjoyed the first festivities since the coronavirus pandemic began..
Karen Garner posted: “After such a fab weekend – as the parade was great, the streets were lined with people for the first time in three years which was awesome to see, and the weather even more or less behaved, apart fae a wee shower, and then you get yobs just spoiling it ... and for what reason?
“Well done to all involved in the gala.”
Another, Duncan Gracie, posted: “There will be someone out there who knows who did it. Name and shame them.”
Siobhan Craig added her feelings with a post: “That is such a shame. Hopefully the culprits come forward and pay for the damages caused.
“I’d like to say a huge thank you to the gala committee for a wonderful day –it was lovely to see the park full of people enjoying themselves. My kids had the best day.”
