THIEVES have stolen a plaque from Brentwood’s war memorial, just days before Remembrance Sunday.

Brentwood Council officers discovered on Tuesday morning the metal plate, inscribed with the names of 12 local soldiers who died fighting in the Second World War, had been taken.

A new plaque has been ordered for the statue, at the junction of Shenfield Road and Middleton Hall Lane, although it is unclear whether it will be ready for the Remembrance Day parade on November 11.

An Essex Police spokesman said: “Brentwood Council reported the incident this morning, believing the plaque was taken at some time between October 18 and October 26.”

Russell Quirk, councillor responsible for assets, infrastructure and localism, said he was furious with what the crooks had done.

Mr Quirk said: “What has happened is sacrilege and disgusting. We have ordered a replacement plaque to be installed, but it is unlikely to be there in time for Remembrance Sunday.

“Work has been taking place to put a new memorial in which will honour local soldiers who have died in conflicts since the Second World War, so for this to happen is simply disgusting.”

Louise McKinlay, the council’s leader, also expressed her anger at the theft, saying it was “appalling”.

Mrs McKinlay said: “I condemn the callous behaviour of whoever is responsible for ripping down this panel listing the names of the fallen to make themselves a few pounds.

“I urge anyone with information to contact the police.”

Ward councillor Phil Baker could not understand why someone would steal from the memorial, saying the people who carried out the theft are “morons”.

“This is an act of moronic behaviour which really does beggar belief,” he said.

“What sort of people would do this? It is truly appalling.”

Anyone with information is urged to call Essex Police on 101.