HEARTLESS vandals destroyed 50 trees just 48 hours after they were planted by Scots children to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.
Local school children planted one hundred trees at Crossgates in Fife last week, writing their names on individual plastic covers, which were put in place to protect the trees.
But cruel hoodlums ripped up half of the saplings, which had arrived from one of the Queen’s own estates.
Fife police are investigating the incident.
The Diamond Jubilee tree planting at Crossgates Community Woodland was a successful event last Sunday, with members of the local village taking part.
Just days later, on Tuesday night, vandals swept in and caused a tide of destruction.
Robert Arnott, of Crossgates Community Woodland, said: “This is a community area run by local residents for the use of both the residents and other close communities.
“Contrary to what some people think it is not owned or maintained by Fife Council and is supported by moneys raised by the woodland group. Over 1200 trees have been vandalised in the past year and moneys raised has to be used to replace trees, not other projects, under the terms of the initial grant received, the trees must be replaced”.
He added, “It is very discouraging to have to keep replacing trees which are being destroyed by local people who seem to have no pride in the village or the facilities which local volunteer groups are creating.
“The police have been involved and if anyone has any knowledge of who did this please contact them.
“If any one does see vandalism occurring they should contact the police, you do not have to give your name but will help to protect a well used local area.”
A spokesman from Fife police confirmed they were working with Mr Arnott to investigate the matter.
