A popular Welshpool pub has been targeted by vandals, leaving its heavily pregnant landlady questioning her future.
Nine windows were smashed individually at The Grapes shortly before 4am this morning (Tuesday) with the owner concerned that it could be connected to an unsavoury incident at the premises on Saturday afternoon.
Terri-Ann Ratledge has run the pub for the past 18 months, turning it into a community hub with bingo, whist drives and other activities held throughout the week.
But with a baby due in the next four weeks, she said the tremendous support received today from the town has stopped her from throwing the towel in.
“I have been overwhelmed with the support we have received,” she said. “I have not had any bother in 18 months since we came here so this past few days have been very worrying.”
Miss Ratledge called the police on Saturday afternoon after asking a small group of men to leave the premises. It prompted her to spend hundreds of pounds on CCTV cameras and new security locks on Monday. However, they were not installed in time to prevent the damage or catch the criminals in the early hours today.
“I woke up when I heard the windows being smashed which sounded like one after the other. I didn’t have chance to see who did it. They left the brick that they used on the road outside.
“This is a great family pub with lovely regulars and teams who call it their home. They have all been so supportive so I don’t want to be bullied into giving it up.”
Earlier this year there were similar incidents reported of windows being smashed at The Green Dragon and The Talbot, and Welshpool Police confirmed that they are investigating this latest act of criminal damage.
A spokesperson told us: “An incident has occurred sometime during the early hours of today, which has resulted in numerous windows being damaged. We are appealing for any information, and witnesses which will help in identifying offender(s) and/or any vehicles which may be involved.”
Contact Welshpool Police on 101 if you have any information.