A historic film prop gravestone used in the 1984 adaptation of A Christmas Carol has been vandalised at St Chad’s Church in Shrewsbury.
The stone, which featured in the classic Charles Dickens film starring George C Scott as Ebenezer Scrooge, was discovered smashed into several pieces over the weekend.
The incident has devastated local residents and tourists who regularly visit the landmark as part of their Christmas traditions.
The gravestone prop played a memorable role in the 1984 film, appearing in a scene where Scrooge encounters the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come.
A historic film prop gravestone used in the 1984 adaptation of A Christmas Carol has been vandalised at St Chad’s Church in Shrewsbury
West Mercia Police
In the scene, Scrooge wipes away snow to reveal his own name inscribed on the stone.
The prop has since become a cherished tourist attraction in Shrewsbury, drawing visitors particularly during the festive season.
Shrewsbury town council’s clerk, Helen Ball explained that this time of year is “like a pilgrimage”.
Several stone masons are thought to have already contacted officials about potentially repairing the damaged prop.
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The daughter of the stone’s original creator from 1984 has reported that her father was “devastated” by the destruction.
Local residents took to social media to express their anger at the vandalism.
“What vile people – I really hope they get caught, that’s disgusting,” wrote one resident.
Another commented: “What kind of sick minds were behind this? … Absolutely disgusted.”
“I’m utterly appalled. We love visiting Scrooge’s gravestone every Christmas,” shared a third resident.
The incident has devastated local residents and tourists who regularly visit the landmark as part of their Christmas traditions
West Mercia Police
Others described the prop as “part of Shrewsbury’s history”.
West Mercia Police confirmed the vandalism is believed to have occurred within the past three days.
PC Jono Lightfoot said: “If you were in the area between Thursday 21 Nov and Sunday 24 Nov and witnessed any unusual behaviour, please get in touch as it may help with our enquiries,” said PC Lightfoot.
Police have urged anyone with information about the incident to contact the force.
