Hall, the Corporation of Hamilton secretary said yesterday.

Mr. Roger Sherratt said descriptions of the youngsters had been passed on to the Police.

"We hope the Police will be able to trace them.'' The tree was put up last month by volunteers of Agape House -- the hospice for the terminally ill.

Each of the lights memorialised a hospice patient.

Over the weekend, thieves snatched more than 100 bulbs. The tree was also damaged and some lights were broken.

Mr. Sherratt said a Corporation's plea for public help over the theft and vandalism attracted a good response.

"Within minutes of the report going out on radio somebody did call City Hall and provided useful information, indicating damage to the Christmas tree was caused by two children, between ten and 12 years of old.

"They were seen smashing lights on the Christmas tree and smashing lights in Washington Lane. Police are conducting inquiries.'' Mr. Sherratt said one of the suspects was a boy wearing a red track suit.

The other was a girl with a dark top with stripes on her sleeves.

"We appreciate if anyone can provide any further information,'' said Mr.

Sherratt.

Mr. Sherratt added it was thought adults were responsible for the theft.

Police spokesman P.c. Gary Venning said three suspects were interviewed initially over the incident.

"Police attended the description of some youths and saw suspects walking down Burnaby Street.

"They were questioned, but there was insufficient evidence to proceed any further.''