Emsworth In Bloom hit by vandals again

One of the images taken after the vandalism in Emsworth town centre

The group saw some of their displays damaged last year – and now, just as spring has sprung, it has happened again.

Emsworth In Bloom leaders believe CCTV is the only way to deter the ‘drunken yobs’ they blame for the destruction.

It’s been a time of mixed emotions for EIB, who have won a grant from the Aviva community fund and are soon set to have a visit from Havant MP Alan Mak to congratulate them on the award.

Sheila Morris, who founded the group and oversees it work, said: “I got a phone call on Monday to say the three three-tiered planters in St Peter’s Square had been completely wrecked.

“I went to take photos and it’s just wanton destruction.

“I feel sad. So much time and effort goes into this project. For it to be destroyed in this way is devastating for the team.

“But we won’t let them win and we will replant immediately.”

Anyone with information about the vandalism is urged to contact police, the council or EIB volunteers.

But Mrs Morris said the police would probably only act if they were alerted while the damage was being done.

She said: “Someone must have seen it (on Saturday night, around midnight). The yobs were seen sitting on the top of the planters.

“The planter in the High Street was also vandalised. There are no cameras in Emsworth, which amazes me. The only way we will catch these yobs in action is by CCTV.

“I repeat – the yobs will not win. When anyone actually witnesses the vandals at work, they must ring 999 and the police will attend as soon as possible.”

Mrs Morris plans to talk to pub landlords to make them aware of the problem.

“It is heart-breaking to see such wanton destruction,” she added. “So much time and effort goes in to keeping Emsworth in Bloom.”

STEVE BONE

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