The building in Market Place had been closed to the public for some time as the stone work had become damaged and was deemed to be a safety risk.

Last week Scarborough Borough Council replaced the large stones in a delicate operation.

However, just days later more than £1,000 worth of damage has been noticed on the new stones.

While it is not yet clear how the damage has occurred the council has not ruled out vandalism as the cause.

It is appealing to the general public to help it understand how the damage was caused, and, if it was a deliberate act, help bring those responsible to justice.

Martin Pedley, Scarborough Borough Council’s asset and risk manager said: “The council recently commissioned works to install a new stone lintel above one of the columns on the old town hall building.

“Unfortunately, since the works have been completed, some damage has occurred to the section of masonry which supports the lintel.

“We are currently investigating how this damage may have occurred but we cannot rule out vandalism at this stage.

“It is estimated the damage to the masonry will cost in the region of £1,000 to put right, as the section cannot be repaired and needs to be replaced.

l If anyone has any information relating to how the damage may have occurred, they should call Scarborough Borough Council on (01723) 232323.

You can also comment on this story at: www.whitbygazette.co.uk or email the editor at: editorial@whitbygazette.co.uk