Two war memorials have been damaged by vandals across the Easter weekend.

The silhouette figures, next to the Minster Gatehouse Museum on Sheppey, appear to have been bent-in-half following the "mindless act of destruction".

The monuments which say "Lest We Forget" and "Britain's Bravest" were purchased by Minster-On-Sea Parish Council and were put up with the help of the Royal British Legion.

Parish clerk, Trish Hamilton, said: "The parish council is beyond disappointed by the damage caused to these two well-loved war memorials over the Easter Bank Holiday weekend.

"These figures were bought by the council on behalf of the community it serves to commemorate our fallen heroes."

The parish council urges that anyone who knows who is responsible for this mindless act of destruction contacts Trish Hamilton on 01795 873831 or email her at clerk@minsteronseapc.co.uk.

A spokesman for the RBL Isle of Sheppey Branch, said: "As with all vandalism we are appalled and especially when it is aimed at those who gave so much in order that we can live as we do today."

Peter MacDonald, an Independent councillor for Sheppey, said: "What is wrong with people!

"This was caused by a brainless thug.

"I can't believe this happened, how dreadful.

"I think the courts have got to take responsibility when it comes to things like this.

"This is why I'm keen to get a decent school on Sheppey, so people start taking responsibility for their actions."

Following the vandalism Islanders took to Facebook to share their dismay.

Paul Alexander Thurston, who took the picture, said: "Some people just have no respect."

In response to his post one person added: "Disgusted by the behaviour of the minority on our island.

"Maybe it’s a generation thing, but I find this extremely disrespectful to fallen serviceman, and their families, through the years. I hope the culprits are caught."

A veteran also commented on the matter.

They said: "As a veteran we see these silhouettes as a tribute to honour those brave servicemen and women that paid the ultimate sacrifice.

"I feel humbled that local communities spend money to remember our fallen.

"God help us if this country had to ask for our young men to take arms to defend this nation because all respect is slowly slipping away.

"This isn’t kids being kids this is a tragedy that is all to common and so disappointing."

Minster-on-Sea Parish Council and the Royal British Legion has been contacted for comment.