Vandals strike at Walsall Arboretum

Forty trees that were planted by schoolchildren and volunteers in Walsall Arboretum only last week have been destroyed by vandals.

The saplings were planted as part of the park's ongoing regeneration and will now have to be removed and replaced — leaving a bill of more than £1,000.

Police today described the attack as a "wanton act of vandalism" and have launched an investigation to find those responsible.

And Councillor Anthony Harris, Walsall's leisure boss, said the yobs "don't warrant the oxygen the trees provide".

The trees, donated by the Woodland Trust and Tree Council, were planted in the Arboretum Extension last Thursday as part of a wider scheme to boost the park by 4,000 new trees and shrubs.

It is believed the vandalism took place between 5pm on Sunday and 10am on Monday. Acting Sergeant Verity Evans, from Parkhall and Chuckery policing team, said: "We are appalled by this wanton act of vandalism and are appealing for anyone who noticed anything suspicious around the Arboretum between these times to come forward."

Chuckery Primary School pupils helped to plant the saplings.

Headteacher Margaret Lever said: "We are just shocked that somebody has done such a wicked thing."

Anyone with information can call the police on 0345 113 5000.