41 trees may have to be felled after malicious attack at Nothe Gardens in Weymouth

It is feared that most of the trees, which vary in age and size, will die or have to be felled as a result of the damage.

The council’s parks’ service will assess the extent of the damage over the coming months and, where possible, fell the trees to ground level to encourage species to regenerate. However, this course of action will have a significant impact on the landscape and be upsetting to those who have donated a tree.

The damage does not appear to be a random act of vandalism as it has been carried out over a period of weeks and the attacks have been well targeted to purposely kill the trees. The matter has been reported to the police and they will be stepping up their visits to the gardens as a result.

Councillor Andy Blackwood, Community Facilities Briefholder for Weymouth & Portland Borough Council, said: “The attacks on the trees at Nothe Gardens are shocking. The trees play an essential part in creating the character of the Nothe Gardens, which are so popular to residents and visitors alike.

“What is particularly distressing is that a majority were donated, in some cases over twenty years ago, to mark the death of a loved one. The inscribed plaques in front of these trees clearly tell the story of someone’s loss and to attack these trees in full knowledge of the impact that this will have on loved ones is truly callous.”

The council would like to appeal to anyone who has witnessed anyone sawing or uprooting trees to report it to the police and the council’s parks’ service. By being vigilant and reporting any future incidents, you can help the council protect the gardens and these much-loved trees.

The council is in the process of writing to donators to explain what has happened and is urging anyone who may have donated a tree, but subsequently moved house and not informed the Parks Service, to let them know. Please contact them on 01305 838000.