HAYDON Wick residents are furious after trees planted by Swindon Council were snapped in half after just two days.

Four saplings were planted in Thames Avenue but two days later half of them had been destroyed by vandals.

Haydon Wick councillor Wayne Lawley, said: "The trees were to enhance and beautify the entrance to Haydon Wick.

"They were planted on Wednesday (February 9) and by Friday two of them were destroyed.

"They have been snapped in half. We are very disappointed.

"There is a history of antisocial behaviour and graffiti in Haydon Wick.

"It is worrying to have come across this especially when the council is working to improve the environment for people."

Ellen Lee is landlady of the Fox and Hounds Pub.

She said: "I think it's heartbreaking really.

"Somebody has gone to the trouble of planting those trees to make the place look better but they've been snapped before they've grown.

"People complain the council doesn't do anything but you understand why when something like this happens.

"People are getting fed up with all the vandalism around here that's the general view I'm hearing.

"There seems to be a group of kids that are just running riot in the area."

A Swindon Council spokesman said: "Vandalism of this kind spoils the environment for all.

"We will work with the community to ensure it does not happen again."

Anyone with information should contact police on 01793 528111.

Diana Milne