An urgent plea has gone out in a bid to catch "mindless vandals" who virtually destroyed three silver birch trees which were only planted last month.

The trees - which cost almost £1,000 to buy and maintain - were planted at Edenside, Frinton, by Tendring District Council staff.

They were paid for by Tendring Councillor Iris Johnson out of money she was given to spend on schemes in her area.

"The trees have all literally been torn down and I am absolutely devastated by this act," she said.

"It is mindless vandalism and I simply cannot understand why anyone would want to do this. It must have taken some strength - they have literally been pulled away from the trunk below the actual support posts."

The damage was discovered by TDC staff when they were cutting the grass on the site.

It is believed that one of the trees was damaged last week and the other two last night (March 16).

Trevor Mills, TDC's Horticultural and Transport Services Manager, said that the tops had been ripped right off.

"We will be leaving what remains of the trees to see if in time they will recover," he said. "We will do all we can to help them to grow again but they have been severely damaged."

The Council has reported the damage to the police who are investigating the vandalism.

"I would appeal to anyone who has any information on who may have been responsible to come forward and speak to the police and help them with their enquiries," added Cllr Johnson.

Each year all 60 Tendring Councillors get £2,000 each to spend on schemes of their own choice.

They are allowed to select deserving groups and organisations within their own ward - or an initiative to benefit the community in their area.

Cllr Johnson decided to spend almost half of her money for 2008/9 on the three silver birches.

Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact the police or the anti-social behaviour reporting line on 0845 605 2222.

17/3/09