DONATIONS have been flooding in to the Dorset Echo’s appeal to replace the memorial trees targeted in a vandalism spree at the Nothe Gardens.

More than £200 has already been donated by kind-hearted readers and community groups.

Roger Genge, chairman of the Friends of Nothe Gardens, thanked everyone who has contributed to the appeal.

It comes after 41 trees, many planted in memory of loved ones, were targeted by vandals at the beauty spot.

Weymouth and Portland Borough Council is in the process of assessing the damage and finding out which trees are likely to survive.

Funds sent in to the campaign will be used so memorial trees which have to be cut down will be able to be replaced.

Police are aware of what has happened and are appealing for witnesses.

It is believed there were four separate spates of vandalism between August 29 and November 6.

A Dorset Police spokesperson said the incidents are being treated as ‘deliberate and systematic’.

Among the people who have donated so far to the campaign are Chris Buckley, who runs gardening service The Funky Gardener.

He said: “I was shocked when I read the article. It is just indescribable.

“These are memorial trees, planted in memory of people’s loved ones. It’s just wrong.

“I wanted to do something so my business can put back into the community, and this is such an important cause.”

The Waterside Community Forum has also donated funds.

Dave Burchill, from the group, said members were ‘appalled’ to read about what they described as the ‘wanton destruction’ of memorial trees.

He added: “We hope the appeal enables you to replace all those destroyed trees.”

Other cheques have been sent in anonymously.

Mr Genge added that he was touched at the response.

He also wants to hear from anyone who would like to get involved in the Friends of Nothe Gardens group.

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.

Have you been affected by the vandalism? Call reporter Rachel Stretton on 01305 830978.