IT’S not fake news – but a homeowner in Eastbourne is appealing for the return of a Trump-themed display which has become a local landmark.
89-year-old Val Gutteridge has been dressing up ‘Bert and Gladys’ since Christmas 2020 following a festive competition locally and displaying them in her front garden – but that has now stopped after thieves stole Burt on Sunday 1st December.
Val Gutteridge, 89, who dresses up and changes the theme according to world happenings and events said the thief pulled up in a red van, around 5pm, and simply stole Bert from the property in Seaside.
Bert was dressed up as incoming U.S. President Donald Trump following his election last month.
Bert’s female friend, Gladys, was also targeted earlier in the year but was thankfully reunited with her long-term partner the next day.
Val’s daughter, Karen, told Eastbourne News: “It’s very disappointing Bert has been stolen by someone who has no respect for other people’s property.
Many people stop and take photos. When my mother said she was going to stop doing them, she was persuaded to carry on.”
It’s hoped Bert and Gladys can be back together again soon to enjoy future events and dressing up together.
