Vandals rip out trees and light fires in parks

A spate of vandalism at two parks in Nottinghamshire has been described as "heart-breaking" and "disheartening".

Trees have been broken and ripped out entirely at Queen Elizabeth Park in Stapleford and Banks Road Open Space in Beeston, Broxtowe Borough Council said.

Fires have also been lit and vandalism has caused "considerable damage" at the green spaces.

Resident Stephen Cook, 57, said: "Any damage to the local area for no particular reason is heart-breaking for everybody."

Louise North, 43, said she would like CCTV to be installed at Queen Elizabeth Park in the future.

"I'd also like to see regular visits from community support officers and something that can monitor the park because it's shame that it's being vandalised all the time." she added.

"The upsetting thing is that there's no explanation for it and no need for it really."

In a statement, a Broxtowe Borough Council spokesperson said they were "deeply disheartened" to see multiple trees planted in memory of Queen Elizabeth II had been "carelessly destroyed" inside Queen Elizabeth Park.

Head of Environment at Broxtowe Borough Council, Emma Georgiou, said new trees may have to be planted elsewhere inside Queen Elizabeth Park going forward.

"Six trees have been damaged for the second time now, so planting them in the same place for the third time is something we may not do again", said Ms Georgiou.

"Trees at the Banks Road Open Space were only planted in November. One of them was ripped straight out of the ground and put into the river.

"There is a cost to clear up and re-plant the trees, this money could be used on other projects at other green spaces. We will look to clear up and re-plant where we can.

"Please don't approach people carrying out anti-social behaviour, please stay safe and just inform us and the police with what you see."

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