A Mercury story has prompted a kind-hearted gesture to donate a Union Jack to the Burma Star Memorial, where mean thieves had already taken two flags.

John Hood, secretary of the Deal, Dover and district branch of the Burma Star Association, contacted the newsroom when the second one was stolen.

After reading the story Mr Hood’s nephew Brian Hood was so appalled that he appealed for help from his employer, the Dover Harbour Board.

Its chief executive Bob Goldfield agreed to offer a replacement flag and the hand-over was made on Tuesday.

uch disrespect for an association representing the brave men and women who fought for our freedom is despicable. Mr Goldfield said: "S

"We were delighted that we could help put this right and play a small part in honouring those within our community who served in the Burma campaign of the Second World War by presenting them with a new Union Jack."

* For full story see page four of the East Kent Mercury, August 4.