Tree in Rushden park destroyed in act of 'senseless vandalism'

Trees were planted in Melloway Park in May 2023 as part of the Green Canopy Trees initiative.

Now, one of the acers planted in the park has been destroyed in what Rushden Town Council is calling ‘a vicious act of criminal damage.’

A Rushden Town Council spokesman said: “We are very disappointed that someone has seen fit to destroy one of the acers planted on Melloway Park.

"We value all of our trees and consider this to be a vicious act of criminal damage. We work hard to maintain all of our trees and actively plant new trees wherever possible.

“Please contact us if you have any information on this senseless vandalism.”

The lifespan for an acer tree (also known as the Japanese maple) is generally more than 100 years, with some species living to around 350 years.