CCTV has been deemed ineffective in tracing those responsible for vandalising the American war memorial in Barry’s town centre.

Police are still urging people to contact them following an appeal for information about the incident in King Square when the American war memorial plaque, on the town hall building was sprayed with red paint.

Vale Council workers have removed most of the paint.

South Wales Police’s Neighbourhood team concluded there are no further lines of enquiry and that the matter is finalised.

The only set of CCTV cameras covering the relevant area were, on the night of the graffiti incident, pointing down Holton Road for the duration of the evening meaning none the culprits can be identified.

CCTV staff have been advised that there have been a small number of youths gathering on the square recently and that this may be worth monitoring.

However, the cameras are unable to give a clear view of King Square even when turned around, as the trees obstruct the line of sight.

Vale MP Alun Cairns said: “Having spoken to South Wales Police in regard to the investigation of this incident, I am confident that they are taking all steps possible to prevent this from happening again in the future.

“It disappoints me greatly that individuals would show such a lack of respect towards a memorial like this and I urge anybody with information regarding the incident to inform the police.”

Meanwhile, preventing graffiti on Barry town hall and stopping anti-social behaviour on King Square were the agreed priorities of the most recent Buttrills PACT (Police and Communities Together) meeting.

The priorities were decided, at the meeting held at the Barry Town Council offices.

The most recent meeting agreed that PCSOs should prioritise stopping anti-social behaviour, with residents also expressing concern about dangerous cycling in pedestrian areas.

Vale and town Buttrills ward councillor, Ian Johnson said: “Residents at the meeting were very disappointed that the World War II plaque on King Square and the Town Hall had been graffitied.

“We asked local PCSOs to spend more time on King Square in the run-up to Christmas so that they can stop anti-social behaviour, such as dangerous cycling on pavements or pedestrian areas or graffiti on the town hall.”

The damage was caused sometime between 5pm on Monday, October 9 and 8.30am the following morning.

Anyone who may have information, should call South Wales Police on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 and quote reference 1700413993.