A West Cumbrian town has received a vandalism attack in one of its most loved and historic areas.

A photograph on Whitehaven Harbour was vandalised this week by an unknown individual.

The picture was part of a full outdoor exhibition showcasing historic images of the town.

Gerard Richardson, who organised the exhibition, said: "I'm baffled as to why anyone would do this. It's a free, outdoor exhibition aimed at getting people reminiscing and chatting.

"I cant even imagine how small a person's brain has to be to get some pleasure from this and I would urge anyone who witnessed the idiot to contact the police on."

Mr Richardson organised the exhibition with the help of The Beacon Museum.

The exhibition is titled Rediscover Copeland.

The image was vandalised with black permanent marker with the letters 'BUM.'

This is the third act of vandalism in the town centre in recent weeks with the others being the graffiti on the Abraham Acton VC memorial and white paint being splattered on the giant mural of Gulliver's Travels.

It is unknown whether or not any of the incidents are connected but police are currently investigating the circumstances.

The remaining photos can still be viewed on the Marina and the full exhibition is on in the Beacon until October 3rd.

We spoke to Whitehaven Mayor Chris Hayes on the issue and he believes that the harbour incident will have been done by youths.

Mr Hayes said: "It's a shame, they brightened the town up and to see it be ruined is a disgrace.

"If you see anything like this happening then please report it as it will help to stop it happening again.

"I think the vandalism has been occurring because the schools have been off and they're bored.

"However, it will change now that the schools are back.

"It is a minority though lots of young people have been helping out around town and it's nice to see."

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Cumbria Police on 101.