St Thomas residents' anger as newly planted trees destroyed

St Thomas residents responded with shock, disappointment and anger after recently planted fruit trees in Cowick Barton Playing Fields were destroyed over night. Many residents were very upset by the senselessness of the actions.

The majority of the new trees we broken and some dragged in to roads neighbouring the fields; one was even left pushed through the railings in the gate.

St Thomas Councillors, Rob Hannaford, Hannah Packham and Paul Bull condemned the actions of the vandals in the strongest terms.

Rob Hannaford said "The trees were bought with money from the Devon County Community grant, and were a real asset to the community. It is shocking that people could damage their own community space in this way."

Councillor Packham said "This has been really upsetting for local residents, many of whom worked hard to help organise and plant the trees. I would appeal to those responsible to look to their consciences and come forward. I can not comment on police action, but those responsible should help towards the cost of replacements and replanting".

Councillor Bull highlighted that central government cuts have lead to local services being stretched and have contributed to delays in finding a resolution to reopening local provision such as the community centre on Merrivale Road. 

The police have been informed about the vandalism.

The St Thomas Councillors will remain in contact with Active Devon, and hope to meet with residents and the local PCSO in the near future.