Bereaved woman fears Islington plaque thieves return

A bereaved woman is hoping thieves do not return to steal a treasured memorial to her late partner – after every other plaque in the park was taken.

Vandals stole six brass plaques from benches in Duncan Terrace Gardens, in Colebrooke Row, Islington, about a week ago, leaving just one mysteriously untouched.

Its owner Caroline Fisher, of nearby Elia Street, was relieved the tribute to her partner Mustafa Gunaydin escaped – but she fears it could be next.

She said: “I’m surprised but relieved that my partner’s plaque is still there, but whether it will remain is another question.

“I’m hoping they won’t come back to take it, but there’s not much I can do. I hope it doesn’t go.”

Mr Gunaydin, who died in August 2009, was well-known as the owner of Quality Dry Cleaners in Essex Road, Islington, before he sold it in 2005.

Ms Fisher, who works in publishing, added: “I’m very touched by the concern shown by local residents who reported the plaques stolen and made a big effort to track me and warn me about the damage.

“I have a lot of sympathy for people whose loved ones’ plaques have gone missing. Their disappearance must be very distressing.

“I feel a plaque is a great comfort that helps keep the memory alive.

“They have very little monetary value, but the emotional value is enormous.”