The family of a former city councillor have hit out at “senseless vandalism” at their father’s memorial
Liverpool political legend Jack Spriggs
The family of much-loved former city councillor have condemned “lowlifes” who have cut down and damaged trees and a plaque in his memory. Last year at Adlam Park in Fazakerley, a series of new trees were planted at the green space, including one dedicated to former Cllr Jack Spriggs.
Mr Spriggs served the north Liverpool ward for 18 years before he died in 2009. He had previously also served as Lord Mayor of the city in 2002.
His family have taken to social media to hit out at those responsible for damaging items put in place by members of the community, including their father’s dedication. Current Fazakerley East ward member Debbie Cooke described the behaviour as “sense vandalism.”
Former Lord Mayor Mr Spriggs grew up in Everton and attended St Francis Xavier school. He worked in the construction industry before moving to Fisher Bendix.
The damaged tree in Adlam Park
He earned his union and political spurs by leading the famous workers sit-in in 1972, when the company announced it was closing its Kirkby factory. He became a councillor in 1991, and despite the heartache of the sad death in 1999 of his wife of 40 years, Ann, continued to serve his city, becoming Lord Mayor in 2002.
In 2010, a commemorative plaque was unveiled in his memory at Fazakerley Community Federation on Formosa Drive marking his two loves, Liverpool Council and Liverpool FC. Former councillor and current Liverpool City Region Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram was among those to attend.
Cllr Cooke took to social media to chastise those responsible for the park damage. She said: “Last year we planted lots of new trees in Adlam Park, including one dedicated to Councillor Jack Spriggs. Unfortunately there have been recent incidents of vandalism on the new trees, with one tree being completely chopped down and another has had the caging forcefully removed.
“At Seeds Lane, we’ve had similar issues and it looks like someone has taken an axe to one of the new trees there. We will be ordering replacements for the missing trees, which will be replanted this winter.
The dedication to former councillor Spriggs
“I would however urge anyone if they see any acts of vandalism to report it, you can do this on the Liverpool Council website or message me and I will report it. This is our community and we want it to be a nice environment for everyone to enjoy.”
Mr Spriggs’ son, Dave, expressed his anger at what had happened. He replied: “Just scum lowlifes they are.
“Try to do nice things and people abuse it, our family will always be grateful for my dad’s tree and plaque.” Cllr Cooke described the actions as “senseless vandalism” and said she hoped the city council would fund further equipment.
Mr Spriggs’ daughter Karen added: “I’m sad about this, it’s disgusting. My dad gave everything to being a councillor, this has really upset me.
“Why do they find it funny to destroy beautiful trees and loving remembrance for us and the Fazakerley community?”