Flowers and bushes ripped up in 'horrific' environmental vandalism in Newport
Heartless vandals have torn up tulips and bushes at a beauty spot that was lovingly tended to by volunteers.
The environmental vandalism at an alleyway in Newport was discovered this morning by dismayed volunteers from Newport in Bloom.
Previously an unloved hangout for youths, the alleyway between Stafford Road and Lapworth Way was tackled by Newport in Bloom two or three years ago and transformed into a green destination to the delight of residents.
But vandals have torn up the plants and left it in disarray overnight, to the dismay of the volunteers.
Karen Claxton from Newport in Bloom has been out today to try and salvage some of the plants. She said: "We're very upset about it all.
"Historically the alleyway was renowned for dog excrement. It was a dark alley where youths used to congregate, Newport in Bloom took it on two, three years ago.
"Through the work of Newport in Bloom in conjunction with Telford & Wrekin Council and local councillors, we've had it cleared of large bushes and we've replanted it.
"Yesterday we had a work party down there and everybody who came past commented on how good it was looking.
"I went down at 8pm to water... then this morning I got a phone call to say that somebody had reported there had been some damage.
"When I went down there I couldn't believe my eyes."
Tulips have been trashed and young bushes have been ripped up. The area has had plants stolen before but the widespread vandalism this week has "a different flavour".
"It's horrific, what they've done," said Karen.
"We just want anyone who knows anything to contact the police."
The incident has been reported to police, and anyone with information should call 101 referencing the incident number 0047i of April 27.
