THEY were planted to keep the memories of loved ones alive.

Now, they have been targeted by vandals intent on destroying a peaceful part of Weymouth.

Today, the Dorset Echo is launching an appeal to replace more than 40 trees destroyed at the Nothe Gardens.

Roger Genge, chairman of the Friends of Nothe Gardens, said he was ‘stunned’ at the extent of the damage.

He is one of many who found that the tree he planted in memory of someone close had been destroyed.

Mr Genge said: “The trees there have been vandalised before, but it’s never been like this.

“This was sustained, planned, malicious."

The parks service at Weymouth and Portland Borough Council is assessing the extent of the damage.

A borough council spokesman said there are a number of factors to be taken into consideration before costs are set, including which trees survive and the species and size.

The matter has been reported to police, who are stepping up patrols in the area.

A spokesman for Dorset Police said: “This was reported initially on October 29.

“It appears that between August 29 and November 6 there were four separate spates of vandalism, causing damage to 41 trees. This is being treated as a deliberate and systematic spate of vandalism, and any witnesses are being asked to contact police on 101.”

Mr Genge said: “I’ve lived here since 1963 and the person we bought the house from was a close friend.

“Just to know the tree we planted in memory of him has been damaged is dreadful. He was a good, well-respected man.”

Resident Richard Nickinson, whose mother and father are remembered with a memorial bench in the Nothe Gardens said: “I can well understand the distress this will cause relatives who will be devastated to think that mindless individuals would damage them.

"It also spoils the environment and any damage to trees or benches takes away a valuable amenity enjoyed by residents and visitors.”

Mr Genge backed calls for readers to donate what they can to the appeal.

“We can make this a lovely area again," he said.

"But as well as money, what the Friends group needs is new members who can bring new energy to the organisation.”

Cheques should be made payable to The Friends of Nothe Gardens and sent to: Dorset Echo, Fleet House, Hampshire Road, Weymouth DT4 9XD.

Do not send cash donations.