THE chairman of the Friends of Nothe Gardens says he is ‘overwhelmed’ by the generosity of Dorset Echo readers who have donated almost £500 to a campaign to restore vandalised memorial trees.

The trees – many planted in memory of people’s loved ones – were targeted in what is believed to be four separate spates of vandalism.

In response, the Dorset Echo launched a campaign to raise money to pay for any trees which need to be replaced.

Weymouth and Portland Borough Council, which owns the land at the Nothe, is still assessing which of the damaged trees will survive and which are so badly damaged they will not survive.

Roger Genge, chairman of the Friends of the Nothe Gardens, said: “We are very grateful to everyone who has donated.

“The level of support has been just overwhelming.

“When you consider what’s been going on in the world lately, it is incredible that people have the heart to give so much.

“A big thank you to everyone who has donated, and to the Dorset Echo for giving this issue so much publicity.

“It shows how much these gardens are loved and hopefully it will have driven the vandals off as well.”

Cheques have been flooding in from Dorset and further afield, from people who visit Weymouth on holiday or were born here but have moved away.

Many of those who have sent donations have a tree or even two planted in memory of someone special.

One woman, who did not want to be named, said she had trees planted at the Nothe in memory of her husband and son.

Both had been damaged by vandals.

Mr Genge said he knew of at least one family who do not live in Weymouth, but visit their tree with their children every year at Christmas.

He said: “It is sad to think this year they will visit, and see the tree that means so much has been vandalised.”

Anyone with information about the vandalism is asked to call Dorset Police on 101.

n To donate to the appeal, you can write a cheque payable to The Friends of Nothe Gardens and send it to Dorset Echo, Fleet House, Hampshire Road, Weymouth DT4 9XD. Please do not send cash donations.

As well as donations, Mr Genge would like to hear from anyone who is interested in getting involved with the Friends of Nothe Gardens.