Hundreds of people got behind the Peterborough Supports Heroes appeal at a family fun day held at The Dragon pub, at the Hodgson Centre, on Bank Holiday Monday.

However, the event was almost marred by yobs tearing down the carefully erected decorations put up the day before.

Organisers had tied up bunting and flags to show the pride the area has for troops serving in war zones across the world.

At about 2.30am on the Sunday morning, thugs were caught on CCTV ripping down the bunting and making off with the flags.

Secretary of the fund Philippa Millard told how upset she had been to see the wanton destruction.

She said: “We could not believe it after all the hard work we had put in.

“Fortunately we have CCTV and the police are looking into it. We would appreciate if anyone has any information to come forward and tell police.”

Despite the early mishap, the event turned into a rip-roaring success with more than £3,000 raised on the day which will go towards supporting soldiers fighting abroad.

Miss Peterborough Lydia Fahy launched the fun day and crowds quickly gathered to watch the arrival of troops from the Territorial Army and RAF.

Mayor of Peterborough councillor Pat Nash was on hand to offer support, and money was raised through a barbecue, two charity auctions and rides and family fun on the day.

Phillippa added: “We did a lot better than expected. We thought we might get £2,000 but we smashed that target.

“We are so thankful everyone has got behind this appeal. It really shows how proud Peterborough is and how generous residents have been to people they don’t actually know.”

The campaign was launched by Gloria Aschettino who then joined forces with three other friends – landlord and lady of The Dragon pub Janek and Jackie Skutela, and Philippa Millard.

They have another 200 boxes full of treats such as sweets, pens, gloves and toiletries to send off to troops currently serving on the frontline in war zones around the world. They will be shipped out within the next few weeks.

n Shoeboxes, cash or items to be included in the boxes can be handed in at the Dragon pub, at the Hodgson Centre, in Werrington.

Cheques should be made payable to the Peterborough Supports Heroes Appeal.

n For more information, call 01733 750866, or visit www.peterborough supportsheroes.org