TRADE unionists are “disgusted” by the vandalism of a Glasgow monument dedicated to British seafarers who aided democratic forces during the Spanish Civil War.

The Blockade Runners memorial, which was only unveiled in March this year, was daubed with football and sectarian-related graffiti over the weekend.

During the war, when the Republican government defended itself against a fascist military uprising, many British seafarers defied a trade blockade in order to aid the beleaguered democratic forces.

Thirteen British merchant ships were sunk by the fascists, while 51 were bombed, two mined and five attacked by submarines loyal to Francisco Franco’s forces.

Thirty-five British seamen lost their lives and nearly 50 suffered appalling injuries.

RMT general secretary Mick Cash told the Star: “RMT is appalled and disgusted at the vandalism to this important memorial to the brave Blockade Runners who risked everything to oppose Franco and support those defending democracy.

“The shameful graffiti will be washed away but the memory of those who stood against fascism will never be allowed to fade.

“After so much hard work by so many wonderful people and the excitement earlier this year unveiling this fantastic memorial to the Blockade Runners we were totally disgusted to see this vandalism today.”

International Brigades Memorial Trust secretary Jim Jump told the Star: “This is a deplorable act.

“The vandalism appears to be sectarian in nature, which is the antithesis of the values of those who supported the Spanish Republic.

“They were anti-fascists and internationalists.”