Anger as South Tyneside allotments trashed by vandals

Damage caused by vandals at South Drive allotments in Hebburn.

South Drive allotments in Hebburn was targeted last weekend with some who have plots there saying it is the fourth time this year the site has been targeted.

As well as windows and doors being smashed, poly tunnels were slashed and a chicken’s neck was wrung.

Police have said they are investigating the incident and appealed for information to help catch those responsible.

Officers say those found to have caused the damage will be treated with “robustly”.

One allotment owner, who did not want to be named, told the Gazette: “Plenty of allotments on the site have been damaged.

“It’s the fourth time it’s happened this year and it’s just not on.

“One of the lads said that a chicken he had has had its neck wrung.

“Every time they break in they smash stuff up but it seems as if they are looking for something, but tools in the sheds have been left so I don’t know what it is.

“It’s disgusting.”

The vandalism was carried out sometime between Sunday night and Monday lunchtime.

The owner added that the frequent attacks on the site have left allotment owners disheartened.

“A lot of the older people who have allotments are now thinking about giving up because they are sick of this,” said the man.

“It’s been going on for a long time and they are totally fed up.

“You try to keep somewhere nice and things like this happen.”

A spokesman for Northumbria Police said: “On Monday (April 30) at around 1.44pm police received a report of damage to a number of allotments on South Drive, Hebburn.

“The incident is thought to have taken place at some point between 9pm on Sunday, April 29 and 1.30pm the following day.

“Officers attended the scene and found damage to around five plots, causing distress to the owner.

“A patrol plan is underway and enquiries are ongoing to identify those responsible.

“Those who disrespect our communities will be treated with robustly.

“Anyone with information should contact police at 101 quoting reference 0533 300418 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”