A MEMORIAL bench which was destroyed by vandals is set to be replaced by a kind-hearted businessman.

The bench honouring past Dalton Cricket Club (DCC) member Ray Kenrick was damaged beyond repair by trespassers. It is believed to have happened sometime between Tuesday night and the early hours of Wednesday.

Bargain Booze owner Paul Hunt sprung into action after reading about the destruction of the bench in The Mail.

He said: "I’ve owned Dalton Bargain Booze store for almost 15 years now and the community have supported myself and staff over them years. As a business we try our best to support local events and clubs including Dalton Football Club.

"After seeing the article on Thursdays front page of the paper I got in contact with Stan Jones through a mutual friend.

"I personally think it's despicable and a very disrespectful act of vandalism towards Mr Kenrick's memorial bench, I just hope his family can see some good come out of this unnecessary situation."

Mr Hunt was thankful that he was able to repay the family after an act of kindness from the late Mr Kenrick's granddaughter. He said: "Several years ago I was knocked off my bicycle and Jodie Brown was witness to the accident and aided the police with the investigation, so what better way to thank her and DCC than by offering to replace the bench."

One of Ray Kenrick's thankful granddaughters, Leonie Brown, said: "It was generous of him to replace it for us.

"We would have replaced it but he said my grandad was a good friend and they are glad to do it so it means a lot to me that he would do it for me and my family."

DCC Chairman Stan Jones said: "This is a tremendous gesture and it shows the true spirit of the towns loyalty to each other. Many thanks from all at Dalton Cricket Club."

The bench has been purchased Dalton's Charnleys Home and Garden.