Friends of Anderton and Marbury hit back at 'mindless' vandals

Volunteers have hit back following a spate of recent incidents at Northwich Woodlands, including a bench being set on fire and a ‘work of art’ hedge being mowed down.

The Friends of Anderton and Marbury, a group of local residents who help maintain the area, are urging anyone who may have information about what has happened to get in touch.

A spokesperson for the group said: “What sort of imbeciles do this sort of thing?

“I'm sure the Northwich police would be quite interested to hear from anyone who can cast a light on who was involved in these mindless acts.

“In fact, I am sure that the rangers and volunteers would be very keen to listen to anyone who was involved if they wish to come to the park (when they have returned to planet Earth and summonsed up some courage) and explain what went on. They will be guaranteed an 'attentive audience'!”

A bench appears to have been set on fire (Image: FoAM)

Among the recent incidents is fire damage to a carved chestnut bench along Marbury Lane.

Meanwhile, a height barrier has been ‘deliberately removed’ and then bent out of shape.

There is also damage to a section of hedge, which the group say is ‘basically a work of art’.

The hedge has taken years to grow and has required many weeks of volunteer time to shape.

Unfortunately, it appears to have been run through by a vehicle.

A 'work of art' hedge has been driven through by a vehicle (Image: FoAM)

“The rangers and volunteers spend a significant amount of time in the park, in all weathers, trying to make it a pleasant and safe place for all,” added the spokesperson.

“A great deal of time is spent 'behind the scenes' by the rangers and Friends of Anderton and Marbury to obtain additional funding from grants and support from local businesses in order to keep the park operational.

“Here I am, to vent some of my anger and try to convey some of the anger from those mentioned above, for the recent acts of mindless vandalism which have occurred.”

A barrier has been bent out of shape (Image: FoAM)