Vandals strike at Starkies Wood

But environmental charity CLEAR, which raised the funds to carry out the project and invested thousands of hours of volunteer time, including planting, has sent out a defiant message against the mindless destruction.

At least five semi-mature trees, each costing £70-£100, were snapped in half or dragged out of the ground last week.

Secretary Allen Armstrong, inset, said the damage had been reported to police and added: “With the expanded new Levenmouth Academy and College just opposite, a revitalised greenspace, which also serves as community wildlife garden, should play an important amenity and education role.

“CLEAR is determined not to be discouraged by such setbacks.”