STRAWBERRY FIELD INUNDATED WITH OFFERS OF HELP AFTER WREATHS STOLEN FROM ICONIC GATES

Two giant Christmas wreaths stolen from the gates of Liverpool's famous Strawberry Field have now been replaced. 

 

The Salvation Army centre in Woolton, immortalised in John Lennon's famous Beatles song, posted on Facebook to share the news of the theft.
The post said their "lights had been dimmed" by what happened, but offered an olive branch to the culprits by offering them help in these "desperate times".

Touched by the incident, a local business decided to replace the wreaths themselves.

The Christmas Decorators is based in Hunts Cross, a short distance away from Strawberry Field.

Owners Nick and Sarah Bolton created the bespoke wreaths which they installed to replace the ones which had been stolen.
Nick said: "We were highly disappointed that someone would take the wreaths from such an iconic place in our city.

"We have had many locals contacting us asking is there any way we can help as many people have been left upset by the news."

In addition, a giant 25ft Christmas angel (with 25 thousands lights) was also donated by the Christmas Decorators Cheshire who install the decorations for Strawberry Field.

The firm's CEO, Adele Gregson, said: "We're very disappointed that someone would steal not one, but both Christmas wreaths from Strawberry Field.

"These wreaths bring a lot of joy every year. We’re installing the giant angel for them as a gift of thanks in a difficult year for Strawberry Field and to being happiness to all of the visitors who come to the gates."
Following the theft of the wreaths earlier this week, the Salvation Army issued a message to those responsible and offered them help in these "desperate times".

The post said: "We are disappointed to share that the Christmas wreaths from our iconic gates have been stolen.

"Our lights may be dimmed but we aren’t; we are still here, spreading love and joy this Christmas.
"To the people who took our wreaths and all others driven to desperate measures in these desperate times, if you need our support, our gates are open to you.

"Come and speak to us. We would like to help."

The theft was described as "disgraceful" and "shameful" by dozens of people on Facebook.