VANDALS have damaged the Christmas tree in Newport's Westgate Square, in an incident which also put festive lights out of action.

The damage - branded as disrespectful by shoppers - was reported by Newport City Councilin a statement on Twitter and other social media channels:

Among those who condemned the vandalism was Ken Walker, 84, who moved to Newport in 1961 and said that it used to be a "nice town".

"Once it was named a city it went downhill. Newport has gone to mess," he said. 

South Wales Argus: Work being done on the Christmas lights Work being done on the Christmas lights

(Work being carried out on the Christmas lights) 

Another said that it is a "shame" this had happened, as the council has "recently upgraded the lights".