A Santa inflatable, one of the most popular in a Christmas lights display at Coddington was damaged and stolen in Nottinghamshire

A popular Christmas light display has fallen victim to a thoughtless act after one of its most popular inflatables was stolen.

The well-known Christmas attraction in Beckingham Road, Coddington has been running for over 15 years and has delighted thousands of people since 2007.

The item taken was a light-up, moving inflatable of Santa sat in a plane.

The inflatable was removed in such a way that it was damaged and most likely will not be able to be sold or used.

The act has annoyed Rikki Angell who along with Amanda Scrivens organises the display every year.

"This is the first time something like this has happened," said Rikki.

"I feel like some of our efforts have been wasted, it is a bit disheartening.

"It seems like vandalism because they left the fan part of the inflatable here and they have just cut it away.

"It doesn't make a lot of sense.

"We will go ahead with the display now but it is a shame this happened because it was one of the most popular ones we had out of the 50 we own.

"The children enjoyed it, it definately was a favourite."

"A lot of children liked having a photo with this one so we always kept it at the front," added a family member who said they didn't understand why this had happened.

"Our family takes great pride in this display and the joy it brings the community.

"Rikki and Amanda spend so much time organising, setting up, maintaining all of the equipment and packing it all away.

"People probably don't realise just how much effort goes into it.

"They enjoy doing this for families to enjoy and come together.

"Over the years they welcomed local families and witnessed them grow up.

"They have had carol singers, Santa, and even staff from Newark fire station.

"Together with the support from the community, they have raised thousands for charities including Great Ormond Street Hospital, Beaumond House, Children's Bereavement Centre & Coddington Primary School.

"This year they are collecting donations for 1st Coddington Scouts Group.

"What’s happened is completely disheartening and they will stop the display if another event like this happens again."

Nottinghamshire Police have been approached for comment.