VANDALS have attacked a display of poppies which had been specially created to mark the centenary of the start of the First World War. Late-night hooligans are thought to have targeted the display at the Celtic Cross on the Parade in the centre of Liskeard at the weekend. Two heavy earthenware pots containing poppies – a symbol of remembrance for the millions who lost their lives in the conflict – were found smashed to pieces in the disgraceful incident. The broken pots, together with the earth and plants, were found scattered all over the Parade. Two other pots remained intact. Meanwhile, the banner at nearby Westbourne Gardens advertising the Royal British Legion's (RBL) Drum Head service which takes place there on Sunday at 2pm, was ripped down and thrown into adjoining gardens. Liskeard RBL chairman Trevor Newbury said: 'I am disappointed more than angry. I would like to say to these vandals, "Do you know your history, do you actually know what these commemorations are all about? Are you aware of the sacrifices made for you?" 'Unfortunately not everyone sees the important significance of this special commemoration.' The poppies had been grown from seed by the Down To Earth group of Liskeard U3A, sponsored by the RBL, in conjunction with Tony Wood at Stuart House, where the group helps to care for the gardens. 'It is sad that the poppies did not survive the attention of vandals,' said Mr Wood. The U3A group has also planted poppy seeds in the grass around the bases of the other four Celtic crosses at the entrances to the town which were erected as part of the Millennium celebrations in 2000. They are now coming into bloom in time for the Sunday and Monday commemoration events.