A FAMILY has been left devastated after thieves stole a specially made plaque just days after it was built in honour of a much-loved dad.

Thieves ripped out a memorial plaque by Woodstock Pond in Malpas, Newport, last week, which was installed next to a bench in memory of Newport fisherman Dai Evans around four days previously.

Helen Evans, 52, of Malpas, Newport, has now removed the bench which she had made for her late husband, fearing it will also be taken.

The black bench was made to honour Mr Evans’ love of fishing, shaped with a man holding a fishing line next to the pond.

It cost around £700 to be made, with former colleagues of Mr Evans at EnerSys holding a collection towards the cost.

“We had the bench made from scratch as a tribute,” said Mrs Evans.

“When you looked from behind it looked like somebody was fishing in the pond. It was a lovely tribute and it looked perfect. Whoever has done this does not realise the impact of their actions.

“It’s all been spoilt. I am gutted.”

It is believed the plaque was stolen between Wednesday night and Friday morning, when the theft was discovered.

A spokeswoman for Gwent police said: “At approximately 1:50pm on Friday, September 8, it was reported to police a memorial plaque and stand had been stolen from a bench near Woodstock Pond on Bettws lane, Newport.

“The stand has been described as black galvanised steel with three flower rings, the plaque was of high sentimental value as the inscription was in a loved one’s memory.

“Unfortunately, there were no CCTV opportunities in this location and no further lines of enquiry for officers to follow at this time. Officers have spoken with the victim who has been given a crime reference number if any new information surfaces, which officers will pursue.

“Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting log 244 08/09/17.”

Dad-of-two Mr Evans died aged 56 in January and was well-known in Newport.