A bench which was torched by vandals a year ago has finally been replaced after a councillor stepped in to pay for a new one.

Residents had complained it took too long to replace the seat outside the hospital on Victoria Road in Marlow after confusion over who was responsible for maintaining it.

But Wycombe District Council leader Cllr Richard Scott - who represents Marlow ...., stumped up the £500 from his ward budget to fund the new bench.

Unveiling the bench, he said: "The bench was situated in a very useful position, close to the doctor’s surgery and a useful stop-off for elderly and infirm people on their way into the town.

"We’re delighted to be able to reinstate it with the help of the Ward Budget Fund at Wycombe District Council, and look after it on behalf of Marlow residents."

Marlow Town Council has also volunteered to take over maintenance.

Resident Bridget White, who witnessed the unveiling, said: "I was shocked when the original bench was damaged as I used to use it on a regular basis.

"I’m delighted that it has now been replaced."