STAFF at Launceston Castle were saddened to discover a substantial amount of damage that occurred in the Castle grounds in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Police are now investigating the incident and are examining CCTV footage in the hope of identifying the offender/s.

Keith Robson, English Heritage Visitor Opera­tions Manager, Cornwall Cluster, explained that the damage happened sometime between 3.30am and 4am on Sunday.

Damage was caused to what was the Great Wall, in the middle of the Castle Grounds. Stones were picked off the wall and a number were thrown onto the ground. Some of the stones shattered while others were spread around the grounds.

Keith said damage was also caused to the new lamp post and to one of the signs.

In the Gate House, it appears that someone tugged on the gate and pulled off some of the wooden slats.

Keith explained that the stones from the Great Wall were priceless and cannot be put back.

"We try to present the Castle as nice as we possibly can for the visitors. It's heartbreaking when something like this happens. The member of staff who did find the damage was shocked."

Launceston Castle was first built by William the Conqueror's half-brother in 1075. It was largely rebuilt in the 13th century, but some components from the 11th and 12th century remain.

Alex Folkes, Cornwall Council Member for Launceston Central said: "I am as shocked as anyone to read that Launceston Castle has been vandalised. Launceston Castle is the historic landmark of the town. Residents from miles around can see it sitting proudly on top of the hill in the centre of town. Why anyone would want to vandalise it is beyond me. Experts have already said that this type of damage cannot be repaired.

"I hope that, on closer inspection, English Herit­age are able to effect some sort of repairs. In the meantime, I wish the police well with their investigations and urge anyone who knows anything about the vandalism to come forward."

Police are appealing for anyone who may have witnessed the incident or anyone with information relating to the incident to contact them on 08452 777444, quoting log reference number BL/09/582.