A NEW community garden in Reading was vandalised just over 24 hours after it was created by volunteers.
Two men tried to burn plants, damaged pots and pulled a young tree from the ground during the incident in the early hours of Monday, September 28.
One of the men also urinated in the garden before both left the site.
The incident was recorded by Reading Borough Council’s CCTV system, and all footage has been passed to Thames Valley Police.
The garden is on a plot next to the Civic Centre, in the heart of Reading town centre. Council staff had spent four days building raised beds and pathways, as well as planting flowers, trees and other plants.
Volunteers used pitch forks, spades and trowels during the work, giving up their spare time to help create the new space.
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The project was made possible by a successful £13,000 bid to the National Lottery Community Fund. The money has helped pay for raised beds, seating, paths and plants.
Its aim is to create a green space for council staff and the local community. Plans include growing fresh produce and holding pop-up events with community partners.
A possible outdoor kitchen could also be added once the garden is fully established.
The project was started by Catherine Lewis, Rebecca Moon and Stephen Vigar, from the council’s Public Protection and Planning department.
Catherine Lewis said: "The vandalism is hugely disappointing for everyone, particularly for colleagues who gave up their own time to start work on the project over the last few days.
"With a team of amazing volunteers our vision is to rejuvenate the area into a vibrant, inclusive space that everyone can enjoy.
"It is hoped the community garden will be much more than just a place to grow fresh produce—it will serve as a shared hub for local residents, community groups, and the council’s nursery to connect with nature, learn about healthy eating, and foster true environmental stewardship.
"By partnering with local businesses for 'farm-to-fork' cooking tutorials and creating a demonstration platform for sustainable living, we aren't just cultivating fruits and vegetables - we are cultivating relationships and teaching valuable new skills."
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The garden’s organisers also hope it will provide a place where people can spend time outdoors, learn about food and take part in gardening.
Reading Borough Council leader councillor Liz Terry said: "It’s beyond belief that 24 hours after this community garden was created, mindless vandals should look to damage it.
"CCTV footage has been passed to police colleagues, and I’d urge anyone who has any information to report it to Thames Valley Police."
Councillor Terry said the council is grateful to the volunteers who gave up their spare time for the project.
She said the project was making use of a spare patch of land beside the Civic Centre and said she looked forward to seeing it develop over the coming weeks and months.
Police are investigating the damage.
Anyone with information about the two men, or the incident, is being urged to contact Thames Valley Police. Details can also be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers.
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