THE Rainbow Path in Goodland Gardens has been painted over in the early hours of this morning (Wednesday, January 10).

Part of the 62-metre path, which was opened in 2021 to embrace equality, diversity, and inclusion, was covered in white paint.

Somerset County Gazette:

An Avon and Somerset Police spokesperson said: “We are investigating a report of criminal damage following the Rainbow path in Goodland Gardens being painted over.

“We believe this happened in the early hours of this morning.

“If you have any information that would assist our investigation, please contact 101 and quote crime reference – 5224007874.”

Taunton Town Council said they "were very disappointed" by the damage.

Cllr Tom Deakin Leader of Taunton Town Council said: “I was very disappointed to learn of the wilful act of vandalism committed in the early hours of this morning in Goodland Gardens, one of our open spaces.

"More so, given that the nature of the vandalism would suggest that it was motivated by prejudice and intolerance.

"It has been reported to the police and we have asked the CCTV team at Somerset Council to assist with enquiries.

"We utterly condemn this act, as well as limiting the use of a public space, it undoubtedly has a negative impact on how our LGBTQ residents feel.

"We are working with our partners, including GoCreate to ensure that this is cleaned up as soon as possible.

"Ongoing maintenance of the path is the responsibility of GoCreate, a local Community Interest Group, who work hard to bring positivity and colour to Taunton.”

The nearby Pride murals have been vandalised with some offensive graffiti.

Somerset County Gazette:

The Rainbow Path is the brainchild of Jenny Keogh and Liz Hutchin, of Go Create, and the 62-metre path running from Bridge Street into Goodland Gardens beside the River Tone, was opened on Monday, June 28, 2021.

GoCreate said when it opened: "The rainbow footpath will signal to both visitors and the community that Taunton is making considerable steps towards embracing equality, diversity, and inclusion and visibly trying to overcome any inequalities.

"We would like to take these practical steps - by creating these bright and colourful installations – towards making Taunton an accepting, inclusive place to be and that everyone is welcome regardless of how they might identify within the community."