Trees are felled by mindless vandals (From Droitwich Advertiser)

Trees are felled by mindless vandals

10:18am Wednesday 30th April 2008

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RECKLESS chainsaw wielding vandals have destroyed trees in a wooded area of Droitwich Spa.

An area of King George Playing Field, which backs on to the River Salwarpe near the town's high school, has been devastated by the mindless vandalism, which has seen trees cut down and thrown into the water.

“The place has been devastated. It looks like a hurricane has been through here."

Dog walker Ann Atkinson

Old trees at the beauty spot, which is a popular place for dog walkers, have been felled and wildlife affected.

Dog walker Ann Atkinson, who is a regular visitor to the area, was horrified when she saw what had happened.

"The place has been devastated. It looks like a hurricane has been through here. They are doing this at night and gathering here," she said.

"The area was just naturalising itself and wildlife was starting to flourish. All that is now destroyed. Trees have been cut down that have stood for years and plants and animals that relied on them will now die as well.

"I have also found dead birds next to the trees. It is awful to see. These people don't seem to have any respect.

"It is a frightening thought that people are walking around in the dark with a chainsaw," she added. It is believed that one of the reasons the trees have been felled is to make way for rope swings and zip lines across the river.

Martin Tout, property officer at Wychavon District Council, said: "We're absolutely devastated at this reckless act of extreme vandalism. Our community safety manger has been working with Droitwich police to ensure they keep an eye on the area and we will look at replanting these trees.

"It is so sad as this is a lovely spot which I know residents enjoy visiting. We're appealing to anyone that has information on this incident to get in touch with the police."

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