Shameless vandals attack gravestone of Coldstream Guards Buckingham Palace soldier who guarded the #Queen

A group of shameless vandals have desecrated the grave of an ex-soldier who helped guard Queen Elizabeth after the Second World War .

The vile mob of louts, who have not been caught, attacked the resting place of former Buckingham Palace guardsman John Douglas Botwright.

Mr Botwright's grave was one of NINE to be attacked by a gang of yobs who are feared to have struck in four sleepy villages.

Ex-guardsman Mr Botwright served in the elite Coldstream Guards and died six years ago aged 76 just days after being tragically struck down by lung cancer.

The world-famous Guards are the oldest regiment in the British Army, tracing their history all the way back to 1650.

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The proud soldier’s devastated daughter, Rosemary Collins, said: “It’s like losing my father all over again.

“It’s terrible – you don’t think it would happen in a village like this, out of the way.

“I’m heartbroken. I don’t know what makes people do this.

“Is it the latest craze? I just hope it isn’t.”

Mrs Collins, of Willisham, Suffolk, added: “It’s just heartless. You can't understand why people want to do it.

“Dad was such a good man - always laughing and joking. You think you would have a bit of peace when you’re dead.

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“It was heartbreaking going down there to see the damage.

“I think it’s vile and wicked. If we get the gravestone repaired will they do it again?”

Mr Botwright’s headstone was one of two desecrated in Willisham.

Two graves have also been singled out in nearby Nettlestead while five have now been attacked at the Church of St Mary Magdalene in Bildeston.

The top left or right corner of the headstone has been chipped away by what appears to be a chisel in every case.


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