A RAMPAGING cow is believed to be responsible for damaging a memorial plaque to a murder victim.

The plaque was dedicated to the memory of Middlesbrough pensioner, Colin Dunford, who was 81 when he was murdered.

His was one of five plaques damaged by the cow which escaped into Stewart Park, Middlesbrough.

Saplings were also snapped by one of the highland cattle kept in an enclosure next to the grass strip where the memorials are kept.

Coun Nicky Walker, Middlesbrough Council’s Executive Member for Environment, said the cow was believed to have escaped last week. She said: “Unfortunately a small amount of damage was caused, including to memorial trees near to the pen.

“The fence has now been repaired and the trees can be replanted. We are currently in the process of contacting those affected.”

Fortunately other memorials, including one to a baby, were unscathed. The tree planted in memory of Mr Dunford, of Leven Street, Middlesbrough, was undamaged.

The plaque to Mr Dunford was paid for by friends and neighbours, many near his Leven Road home.

Last year James Allen, 36, of Middlesbrough, was jailed for life and told he must serve at least 37 years for murdering both Mr Dunford in Middlesbrough and Julie Davison, 50, in Whitby.