VANDALS have destroyed a tree planted in memory of a Winsford resident.

The town council recently planted the flowering cherry at Wharton Rec in tribute to Frank Coles, who died in 2005, aged 86.

Mr Coles’s son Philip asked the council to plant the commemorative tree at his father’s favourite green space in the town.

But on Monday morning town clerk Alan Warburton was horrified to discover the tree had been pulled out of the ground beside its engraved plinth.

He said: “It saddens me that someone has shown no respect for the feelings of a person who wanted to have a memory of his father in his local park.”

Winsford Town Council has agreed to erect a replacement tree.

Police want anyone with information to call 01244 612570.