Local nature reserve hit by tree theft

RESIDENTS have spoken of their despair after trees were pulled out of the ground and stolen, at Primrose Nature Reserve.   

Some of the stolen trees were planted by residents in memory of their family members who fought in wars. Other trees stolen were also donated by Melksham Town Council as part of the Queen’s Canopy initiative to celebrate the late Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee in June 2022.   

A resident said, “Three years ago, my husband and I planted two apple trees in the nature park, in memory of both our families who fought in the war, now passed on; most recently, my dad, aged 99 years old, who fought in Burma. 

“Recently, both trees were pulled out of the ground, along with two other fruit trees, and stolen. Whoever did this have upset us deeply, more than words can say.”  

Along with the stolen trees, some bird feeders in the area have also been vandalised and thrown into bushes.  

Local resident Vicki Peaston said, “I’m in despair of the world we live in right now! I’m totally lost for words. It is bad enough that our trees have gone, but to have stolen ones planted by residents in memory of family members is just absolutely despicable. If anyone has any information, saw anything, or has any footage of someone walking past with a number of trees in hand, please [report it].”  

Vicki added, “We have also had an issue with our bird feeders being taken and either removed from the area completely or just thrown around in bushes. These are purchased out of people’s own money or through kind donations.  

“It just makes the effort seem worthless when someone just comes along, helps themselves to trees, and doesn’t even think that what they are doing might be wrong or what impact it has. I’ve posted on as many pages as I can on Facebook to try and shame the person who took them into seeing how damaging it is. To read the comments of ‘support’ and offers of help has been massively appreciated; shame on the person who took them, I hope they are proud of themselves.”  

Wiltshire Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward. A spokesperson said, “This incident is thought to have taken place between 10am on 23rd April and 4pm on 24th April.  

“Anyone with information is asked to contact us on 101, quoting reference 54240047041.”