Two teenagers have been charged after alleged vandalism at Linlithgow Palace.
Officers were called to the historic site at around 9pm on Thursday April 20 to reports that the fountain, walls and flagstones had been defaced. The palace is currently closed to allow for repairs.
Boys aged 13 and 14 have since been charged in relation to the alleged incident. The teens have been referred to the Children’s Reporter.
The palace which was built by James V in 1538 was the birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots. Historic Environment Scotland (HES) said conservation teams are working to access the damage.
A spokesperson for Police Scotland said: "Two youths have been charged following an investigation into acts of vandalism at Linlithgow Palace around 9.00pm on Thursday, 20 April, 2023. Various walls and flagstone floors were defaced and a 15th Century Fountain in the Palace grounds was damaged.
"Two males, aged 13 and 14, have been charged in connection with the incident. They have been referred to the Children’s Reporter."
It is believed the site will re-open later this month after repair work.
A HES spokesperson said: "Our expert colleagues are working hard to address this damage before the Palace reopens, but we want to be very clear that any vandalism of historic buildings, including graffiti, is a heritage crime."
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