Police are investigating after a ‘Pride’ rainbow path was painted white by vandals.
The LGBTQ-themed walkway in Taunton in Somerset was attacked three years after it was created to be ‘inclusive and welcoming’.
Part of the 62-metre Rainbow path in Goodland Gardens, Taunton, Somerset which was opened in 2021 was covered in white paint on Wednesday.
On Wednesday, police officers rushed to the scene to find the rainbow path painted white.
Officers cordoned off the path as they started their investigation.
The police is investigating after shocked locals realised the rainbow LGBTQ+ path had been painted over
Cllr Tom Deakin Leader of Taunton Town Council said: ‘I was very disappointed to learn of the wilful act of vandalism committed in Goodland Gardens. Pictured: The inclusive path before vandals painted it white
A council worker was seen attending to the scene on Wednesday
Vandals painted over graffiti art of the word Pride was painted over with a Star of David, a Swastika and the letters KYS
The path was created in 2021 so young people could feel more comfortable ‘being who they are’ in public.
Cllr Tom Deakin Leader of Taunton Town Council said: ‘I was very disappointed to learn of the wilful act of vandalism committed in Goodland Gardens.
‘More so given that the nature of the vandalism would suggest that it was motivated by prejudice and intolerance.
‘It has been reported to the Police and we have asked the CCTV team at Somerset Council to assist with enquiries.
‘We utterly condemn this act, as well as limiting the use of a public space, it undoubtedly has a negative impact on how our LGBTQ residents feel.
The path has been taped off since it was painted over on Wednesday
‘We are working with our partners, including GoCreate to ensure that this is cleaned up as soon as possible.
‘Ongoing maintenance of the path is the responsibility of GoCreate, a local Community Interest Group, who work hard to bring positivity and colour to Taunton.’
Locals were upset with one saying: ‘Words fail me.
‘Hope who is responsible for this is is found.
‘They don’t deserve to live in our lovely town.’
Another one added: ‘It is a disgrace.’
The LGBTQ+ path was painted in rainbow colours to promote inclusivity
The path was meant to show young people that they could be comfortable with who they were
Vandals took to the path with paint brushes this week
The Rainbow Path was the brainchild of Jenny Keogh and Liz Hutchin, of Go Create, and the 62-metre path running from Bridge Street into Goodland Gardens beside the River Tone, was opened on Monday, June 28, 2021.
GoCreate said when it opened: ‘The rainbow footpath will signal to both visitors and the community that Taunton is making considerable steps towards embracing equality, diversity, and inclusion and visibly trying to overcome any inequalities.
‘We would like to take these practical steps – by creating these bright and colourful installations – towards making Taunton an accepting, inclusive place to be and that everyone is welcome regardless of how they might identify within the community.’
Taunton Town Council said: ‘We were very disappointed this morning to see that the Rainbow path in Goodland Gardens has suffered vandalism.
‘If you have any information related to this offence, please report to Avon and Somerset police using this crime reference number AS-20240110-0213.’
An Avon and Somerset Police spokesperson said: ‘We were called shortly before 92.15am yesterday morning to a report that the rainbow path in Goodland Gardens had been painted over.
‘Officers attended and are conducting enquiries. Taunton Town Council has also been made aware. If you have any information which could help our investigation, please call 101 quoting reference 5224007874.’
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