Isle of Wight Police are investigating suspected criminal damage on up to fourteen trees in Ryde.

Over the past week since Saturday, July 20th, Oak and Ash trees, some of them up to 50 foot tall, have been cut down in the area of the Millennium Green, and Dame Anthony’s Common.

PC Caroline Woodgate from the Ryde Safer Neighbourhood Team said:

“It’s believed a chainsaw was used because some of the trunks have been severed completely by clean cuts.”

No wood has been removed from the Millennium Green, which is managed by the Play Lane Millennium Green Trust.

Brian Harris, who’s a Trustee, said:

“None of the damaged trees have official legal protection, but the Green is a rare area of naturally regenerated oak woodland. I believe it’s being ruined by mindless vandals who are causing distress, both to those who look after the Green, and the many walkers who enjoy its beauty and environment.”

Anyone with information, or who saw what happened, is asked to contact Ryde Police Station on 0845 045 45 45 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.