TREES planted in memory of loved ones have been destroyed in the latest spate of mindless vandalism at Blackpool's Stanley Park.

Youths have decimated seven lime trees out of a total of 50 planted last November to replace ones which marked the Festival of Britain in 1951. One of the saplings was sponsored by The Citizen.

The trees of the Tilia species were just coming into bud when they were snapped-off.

Parks development officer Justine Halls said: "To be quite honest I find it sickening and upsetting as do the sponsors of the trees. I was absolutely dreading ringing one lady who had planted a tree and placed her husband's ashes in the plot.

"We thought that the trees were going to be okay and they would manage to reach maturity as they hadn't been touched previously. But eventually they were vandalised and now we have had to totally up-root the trees.

"We just want to know why? And to let these youngsters know that they are causing much unnecessary heartache and upset with their thoughtless actions."

The trees will be replaced by Blackpool Borough Council Parks Sections Arboricultural Unit this coming winter. However, this will mean that the cost will have to be found from the existing arboricultural budget and will therefore be at the expense of other tree planting initiatives.

Area manager for Blackpool Parks Phil Morton said: "Vandalism is a problem that occurs annually to newly planted trees and puts a dampener on what is usually a very rewarding experience.

"However, the arboricultural unit is committed to the development of tree cover within the town and will continue to plant and promote the value of the trees."

On a more optimistic note a £4.2m project to restore the park to its former glory was also unveiled this week. Council chiefs are hoping to hit the jackpot with a bid for Heritage Lottery Fund cash to help them revive the park.

The plan includes renovating certain areas including bandstand and ampitheatre, the cafe buildings and terraces, Cocker Tower, all gardens, main entrance lodges, the lake terrace and landing stages. It also outlines proposals to build a new visitor centre and gardening education centre in the grounds.