Veterans have expressed their "disgust" after a council decided to remove a mural commemorating WW1, leaving behind a blank wall. Crawley Borough Council (CBC) justified the removal of the mural in Tilgate Park, West Sussex, stating it had fallen into "disrepair" and was created without permission.

However, this decision has sparked outrage among locals who are demanding its reinstatement. CBC's assertion that no permission was granted for the mural has also stirred confusion online following the discovery of a Facebook post celebrating the mural's completion. The mural was taken down in February this year, but some residents claim they are only just finding out. Denise Reekie, 74, from the Crawley & Horsham Armed Forces and Veterans Breakfast Club, described her reaction as "disgusted."

She and other veterans have frequently visited the mural since its completion in 2018, marking 100 years since the end of WW1. Denise, from Horley, Surrey, said: "I was utterly disgusted. I just couldn't believe it. It was such a talking point, and it was so visual. There was so much to see on there, and just to see a whitewashed wall was awful.

"It was the only memorial in Crawley to accurately list all those in the area who lost their lives in the war. The people of Crawley are very upset about it. I personally believe that we will get that mural reinstated."

Denise, who is ex-military herself, says that she feels betrayed by Crawley Borough Council (CBC) - who she claims didn't consult anyone before removing the mural. The local authority has taken down a mural, citing its "disrepair" and the lack of permission from the artist prior to its creation.

Yet, evidence from a 2018 post on the council-operated Tilgate Park Facebook page depicts the artist actively working on the mural. The post's caption celebrated the upcoming centenary of WW1's conclusion, stating: "In the run up to the 100th anniversary of the end of WW1 the Walled Garden Community Cafe are commemorating this by painting a huge memorial mural in our Walled Garden here at Tilgate Park.

"Its on view for all to see but if you want to see the artist at work he will be here this Sunday and into next week continuing the painting." A spokesperson for CBC confirmed yesterday (Thurs) that: "The mural on the side of the café in the walled garden was removed in February."

They explained: "It had been put up without permission several years ago, had fallen into disrepair and realistically was beyond proper restoration.

"The wall has now been restored to its original condition."

The spokesperson also highlighted Crawley's tradition of honouring military service members, adding: "As a council we will be happy to work with any group to find an appropriate alternative location to pay tribute to our service personnel. We are fully committed to supporting our veterans and those serving in the forces."

Denise has been informed that a "modern" piece is set to take the place of the original mural.

She further stated: "They told me that they are going to put something more modern on there, but what that is going to be I don't know.

"The people of Crawley want our mural put back."