A MEMORIAL bench erected on top of Plump Hill for the late George Read MBE has been destroyed.

Mr Read, who died in May 2009 aged 69 years, was a former Chairman of the District Council and district councillor for the Mitcheldean and Drybrook ward.

The bench was made with input from children at Dene Magna School and carpenter Jonathan Harrison, and has stood in the spot overlooking the River Severn since 2010.

It is understood the bench had been destroyed by a car crash last Thursday night (February 27).

Mitcheldean parish clerk Sandra Schwanethal said: "I am aware that the bench had been involved in a car accident last week. The parish council hasn't met yet to discuss what they plan to do in terms of replacing/repairing it. We will meet next Monday."