EFFORTS to brighten up a children’s play area in Saxmundham have been sabotaged by vandals who destroyed a row of young trees planted by community workers.

The saplings, supplied by the Woodland Trust conservation charity, were in the ground for no more than a couple of days before being torn out or stolen.

Community workers from Hollesley Bay prison had planted 105 trees in the small play area off Chantry Road in order to disguise an unattractive substation – but their efforts were in vain, as town clerk Maddie Gallop discovered.

“It beggars belief,” she said. “I was totally dismayed to find at least 60 of the young trees have been either vandalised or stolen.

“The two young men who planted them took great pride in their work and were a credit to Hollesley Bay resettlement.

“We do our best with little money. The mindless minority only waste public money and have no respect for anyone or anything.”

It’s not the first time vandals have destroyed attempts to enhance the town.

Expensive play equipment in Seaman Avenue was destroyed the day before its official unveiling last year. Saxmundham in Bloom planters were also upturned and compost thrown at walls.

Ms Gallop added: “I find it difficult to put into words how I feel about the yobs who continue to vandalise everything that is being done to enhance our town.”

Police spokeswoman Anne-Marie Breach said: “There are a small minority of people who continue to carry out mindless acts like these.

“There will be people who know how the damage was caused and we would like anyone with information to come forward.”

Anyone who can help police track down those responsible is asked to call Sgt Daye Goddard on 01473 613500.