Graffiti is “kick in the teeth” for mayor who opened Sabrina Bridge in 1992

The vandals struck Sabrina Bridge overnight on Wednesday, January 31, spraying the word, which is thought to be a graffiti tag, in blue paint on the bridge’s wooden planks, on the commemorative plaque and on a nearby wall on Henwick Parade.

More graffiti was spotted near the rowing club steps and around the racecourse, including the hardstanding area within the grounds and on a white garage door in St Clement’s Gardens.

The word ‘sesh’ is a shortening of the word session and usually references drinking.

The bridge, located near Hylton Road, was opened by Worcester Mayor Ray Turner, alongside his wife Joy, and his name was embossed on the plaque.

The 86-year-old, who lives in the Arboretum part of the city, was said to be “upset” after reading about the damage in the Worcester News, which he has delivered daily.

His daughter Dawn Turner, who studies at the University of Worcester, said: “Seeing the bridge like that really upset him.

“He was upset because he is very proud of that plaque.

“For this to happen is really a kick in the teeth for my dad. It is a hard to hear because he did all these nice things and then that happens.

“He got involved – he was very popular. He has really gone out of his way for this city and was a 24/7 councillor. He worked hard and councillors on all sides respected my dad.

“He served longer than any other mayor because the mayor before him was asked to step down. He was doing it out of his own pocket for the first six months.

“He was a Labour councillor and he really got out and about in the city.”

His wife Joy died almost 12 years ago.

Worcestershire County Council, which maintains the bridge, said the graffiti was removed on Friday.

Speaking on the clean-up, Miss Turner added: “I am pleased they have got it cleaned off fast – it is just mindless.”

Anyone who witnesses vandalism is urged to contact West Mercia Police on 101.