Planters in Newark tourist spot are vandalised

Vandals have destroyed 11 planters which help to brighten up an important tourist area in Newark.

Mrs Jenni Oliver, of the Harbour Master Cafe in Newark, started the Friends of the Wharf group six years ago to help improve the riverside area. She said she had been devastated to see the mess last Sunday morning (February 26).

"There was soil and bulbs everywhere and the planters had gone into the river," she said.

Mrs Oliver said she had only recently spent an entire day weeding and topping up the planters and putting in new bulbs.

"I just couldn't believe it. I would love to name and shame who ever did this," she said.

It is not the first time that vandals have targeted the area. Last year a plastic planter on the bridge was set alight, while plants have been ripped up and items stolen.

But Mrs Oliver said they will not be deterred and is appealing for help to replace the planters which sit on the steps down to the river.

"They really brighten things up and visitors love to see them," she said.