STAFF and pupils at Whiston Willis Primary School have been inundated with offers of help following a break-in by thieves who stole the bench which formed the centrepiece of a special garden tribute to local people who died in the second world war.

The Garden of Remembrance was created by pupils at the school in Weyman Avenue, following a visit by local Normandy veteran, Tom Christian (81), and officially opened at the end of April.

But the youngsters were left devastated following the break-in on the weekend of May 13/14. Now though, their faith in human nature has been restored.

Headteacher Elaine Maloney, told the Star: "Since news of the break-in was reported in the local media we have been inundated with calls, especially from the elderly. I would particularly like to thank the Normandy Veterans Association, of which Tom Christian is a member, who have offered to pay for a new bench; and also Mrs Cooke from Aigburth Royal British Legion who sent £50 on behalf of the branch; Mr Murphy of Dingle, Liverpool, who sent us his electricity rebate and Sue Reid of Hoylake who also sent us £50.

"We can't believe the response we have had. In a way it's like the attitude of people during the war; they have banded together and some good has come out of something awful. It really has restored our faith in people and the children are delighted. We will use the extra money to enhance the garden even further and this time anything that can be moved will be concreted."

Meanwhile, a spokesman for Whiston Town Council, condemned "this disgusting act of vandalism" and said the council would help in any way to rectify the problem including making a financial contribution.