Members of a Cubs group were dismayed to discover that thieves had stolen their hand-made Remembrance Day poppies.

The Mulberry Cub Pack, from the 1st New Romney Scout Group, had made the poppies from clay and painted them as part of their tribute.

They were 'planted' in front of the Scout HQ in Church Lane, with the aim of adding more each year.

However, more than half the fake flowers were stolen at some point last week, leaving the Cubs extremely upset.

It is understood that the theft took place between Monday and Sunday.

Carole Simpson, Cub Leader said: “The Cubs wanted to make a Poppy Garden to remember our local heroes and those who are serving today.

"It is their intention to add more poppies to the garden each year. Sadly it seems there are people in our local community who have no respect for the tribute or what it stood for.

"It is hard for them to realise there are individuals who have no respect and are happy to destroy..." - Carole Simpson

"This is difficult to explain to the Cubs, who spent three weeks making the poppies. They are so upset by the theft.

"We are proud of our youngsters, and it is hard for them to realise there are individuals who have no respect and are happy to destroy”.

“If you know where our poppies are please replace them in our Poppy Garden."

The theft of the poppies is the latest case of anti-social behaviour following on from the criminal damage in nearby St Nicholas Church.

Similar events are leading residents to become increasingly concerned about drug use, anti-social behaviour and vandalism in the area adjacent to the Scout HQ.

New Romney Town Council chairman Cllr Paul Thomas said that concerns had been raised with Kent Police and Community Safety representatives, and that the council is considering solutions.

He said: "It's just so disappointing for them, and for us as well to see them so upset.

"In bringing this out we're not just hoping we can find the poppies, we want to show that people do care as well."

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