Claims that feral teens were responsible for desecrating the war memorial in Radnor Gardens have been proved false.

A resident writing on social media spoke of their horror that the memorial appeared to have been damaged with green paint.

The post drew a lot of reaction with people quick to criticise the area's teens.

However, Richmond Council has confirmed there has been no vandalism. Rather the green staining seen on the memorial occurred because of heavy rain running off the brass statue and plaques.

The original post read: "Having just been down to Radnor Gardens for the remembering (sic) service, I found to my disbelief that the war memorial had been vandalised and sprayed with green paint since Friday.

'I do not find this at all in keep with our respect for the fallen service personnel who have given their lives for our freedom.

'I hope those responsible are proud of themselves and there (sic) parents are proud of their children's actions as well.'

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People responded by describing the actions of those responsible as 'shameful' and 'disgusting'.

One person suggested it was evidence of the need to bring back public birching or National Service, while another suggested such damaging acts were caused by playing violent video games.

The criticism was challenged by others, who pointed out that many youngsters took part in Remembrance Sunday events, marching as cadets and laying wreaths.

And it subsequently emerged that there had been no attack or vandalism. Andrew Miller, who is the vice chairman of the Strawberry Hill Residents Association, said: "I attended the service and took several photographs of the memorial which had not been subject to vandalism. What was in evidence was verdigris as a result of rain hitting the bronze of the plaques and statue."

He was supported by Lib-Dem Councillor, Cllr Julia Neden-Watts, who said: "I believe Andrew is right and this is natural colouring of the bronze parts of the statue, which has washed onto the pale stone plinth."

The Council confirmed this when asked by Nub News. A spokesperson said: "Our Parks Team have confirmed this is a natural occurrence, likely due to the heavy rain."