SUPPORT has poured in for Tiverton's newest resident Beverley after she was attacked just ten days after arriving in the town.
The artistic ape, which was bought by the Tiverton Portas Team, was unveiled at her new home on Phoenix Lane on Saturday August 30, but has already been the target of vandals.
Thugs had put out a cigarette on Beverley's forehead, leaving a large burn while another had engraved the phrase "ball bag" into her cheek.
Mayor of Tiverton and chair of the Tiverton Portas Team Sue Griggs said: "I was shocked but we don't want to focus too much on what happened. The artist will be repairing her when they come back from their holiday. So many people have taken Beverley under their wing and have really embraced her."
Residents appalled by the vandalism, have taken to social media to express their disgust.
One Facebook user said: "(It's) such a shame, it was great seeing the gorillas all around the South West. The kids loved it."
Another said: "Some people in this town don't have any respect for anything and it's disgusting"
Others were less surprised about the act of vandalism with one resident posting: "Like nobody saw that coming. Seriously? Some of the people of Tiverton would vandalize a statue of their own Mum if you stuck in the middle of town. Mindless? Yes. Surprising? No."
One resident said: "Sad, no appreciate for nice things. Tiverton used to be a wonderful place to live in."
Cllr Sue Griggs is encouraging residents to show their support for Beverley by posting their pictures with the gorilla online.
You can show your support by 'Liking' Beverley's Facebook page, here: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Beverley-Tivertons-Gorilla/1467738306823295?sk=timeline
