Yob-hit Santa Claus axes Christmas event at Essex resort
FED-UP SANTA has cancelled Christmas after thugs pelted him with stones.
Santa Clause Colin Letchford was pelted with stones by yobs at an event in Canvey Island, Essex
Bike-riding youths targeted Father Christmas Colin Letchford and five girls dressed as his elves at the end of a festive procession through Canvey Island, Essex.
Former councillor Mr Letchford, 70, had been heading home after leading Saturday’s annual lantern parade for the Friends of Concord Beach when about 15 boys surrounded his sleigh.
He said he was struck on the shoulder by a walnut-sized stone which also “skidded across the hat” of a seven-year-old girl dressed as an elf.
Mr Letchford has now cancelled next year’s parade, saying the attack was “just the latest in a long list of problems” with youths on the island.
Colin claimed he was on his way home from an annual parade when 15 youths threw stones at him
It is concerning, they are completely out of control
He said: “It is concerning, they are completely out of control.
“We have now said we will not be going back to the high street with the sleigh, it is a no-go area now.
“It is such a shame because this is a community event.
“It has reached the stage where people are talking about vigilante groups so police must do something.”
Blazing fire breaks out at Santa's Grotto in Woodbridge
Colin has now cancelled his appearance at next year's parade
Essex Police said the attackers were aged between 12 and 16.
A spokesman said: “Officers attended the scene and searched the area for suspects.”