A public clock erected in memory of a popular village policeman has been shot at by vandals.

The timepiece hangs outside the village hall in Bridge and was bought with public donations about 60 years ago to honour a Sergeant Blee.

But a vandal with an airgun has fired a pellet through the glass, damaging the clock face.

Village hall secretary Mark Esdale said: “When I examined the damage I found a .177 pellet in the clock so it was clearly shot, which is very disappointing.

“The clock is very popular in the village and lots of people appreciate it when they are out and about or waiting at the bus stop. Many have commented on how sad they are to see it damaged.

“But now we are looking at a repair bill and it’s quite a specialist job.

“It needs a new dial, which is two foot wide, although this time I think we will have it made from plastic instead of glass.

“We are determined to get it fixed because it is an important asset to Bridge.”