FURIOUS Kidderminster residents and councillors have hit out at “mindless” vandals who destroyed three trees in the town centre.

People were shocked to find the three young trees had been snapped as they walked through the underpass at the bottom of Comberton Hill over the weekend.

Many were visiting Kidderminster train station to catch a glimpse of the famous engines The Flying Scotsman and Tornado – the centre piece attractions of Severn Valley Railway’s Autumn Steam Gala Pacific Power event.

Wyre Forest District Council chiefs were today counting the cost of the damage and condemned the culprits.

Resident Sarah Leonie said: “On Sunday, my husband and I took our dog for a walk on what was a beautiful sunny morning.

“As we walked through the underpass at the bottom of Comberton Hill, we were shocked to find what appears to be an act of mindless vandalism.

“Three young trees had been snapped, twisted and broken, damage that is obviously irreversible.

“In this day and age when conservation is paramount it's disappointing to know that certain individuals care nothing for the green environment which surrounds them.

“Although the council endeavour to look after, maintain and grow our green spaces, what impression of Kidderminster is left upon the thousands of visitors who came to Severn Valley this weekend, let alone the local residents who walk through this area every day?”

Councillor Ian Hardiman, Cabinet Member for Operational Services said: “This is another case of mindless vandalism and it continues to be a frustration for the council and the community.

“It costs time and money replace features such as these trees and this is becoming very challenging when we have increasingly limited resources.”