VANDALS caused hundreds of pounds worth of damage to new fencing in Weaverham over the weekend.

The damage was caused to fencing at the Owley Wood Nature Reserve on Saturday night, around 10pm.

It is believed the culprits had been drinking.

PC Claire Murgatroyd said a handful of youths were seen in the area who then went on to smash bottles on the pavement opposite a residential area.

A number of volunteers from Cheshire Wildlife Trust have been on the site to help clear up the damage.

PC Claire Murgatroyd said: “It’s just mindless. They were probably drunk because there was smashed vodka bottles on the pavement which has now been swept up by residents.

“All this work is carried out by volunteers, it’s funded by the charitable organisations who try to make it a nice place for people, runners and dog walkers. There’s people going in there most days.

“What is the point? Volunteers are there today fixing it. It is just pointless, mindless damage.”

Cheshire Wildlife Trust must now pay £300 to repair the fence.

Matt Allmark, reserves manager west, Cheshire Wildlife Trust, said the trust is supporting the police with their enquiries.

He said: “Unfortunately, we have experienced some vandalism at the Owley Wood Nature Reserve over the weekend which has led to some fencing being damaged.

“The police have been contacted and they are investigating the issue with our support.

“Owley Wood is an important ancient woodland and the management of the site is carried out by Cheshire Wildlife Trust and The Friends of Owley Wood, funded by Saltscape and The Woodland Trust.

“As part of this project, we are coppicing trees, planting 2000 bluebells and creating paths to improve public access to the site.

“We are all disappointed that the site has been damaged in this way, particularly at this time of year when everything is coming into bud and the bluebells are emerging.”

If anyone has any information about this incident contact PC Claire Murgatroyd on 01606 364214.