A TREE group is urging witnesses to speak out after yet more trees were damaged by vandals.

On May 4 the Witham Tree Group planted 70 small trees in Whetmead, an area of land on the outskirts of Witham close to the A12.

Over the weekend that followed several of the trees were damaged.

It follows a similar incident at Witham Rugby Club earlier this year, where a total of 1,000 trees were stolen or damaged.

Allan Waight, deputy chairman of the tree group, said the most recent damage could have been caused by bikers.

He said: "That weekend bikes were heard heading along the Blackwater Rail trail in the direction of Whetmead.

"Whilst we cannot be certain of course there is a strong possibility that these bikers were responsible for the damage to our trees.

"Whetmead is an area popular with dog walkers and most people these days carry mobile phones.

"We would like to appeal to dog walkers using Whetmead to report any suspicious activity to the police by calling 101 and if possible taking photos."

When Mr Waight went up to Whetmead last week, he found every one of the 70 plants had been destroyed.

The rabbit guards had also been tossed into the trees.

He said: "Fresh tyre tracks were visible indicating that trials bikes had been in the area recently.

"We have always suspected that youths riding trials bikes were responsible for this mindless vandalism. Here is another indication that our suspicions have some validity.

"We appreciate of course that suspicion is not enough and that probably the only way this is going to stop is for the culprits be caught in the act.

"I am therefore appealing to the police to consider what action they can take against these brainless hooligans who appear to take delight in such mindless destruction."

Police were contacted and anyone with information should call 101.