Vandals put charity project under threat

Vandals have caused hundreds of pounds of damage at a Black Country allotment putting a charity project in jeopardy.

They struck at the Abbey Road plots in Colley Gate, Halesowen, where gardener Mick Poultney hopes to run a club for disabled children and adults.

Bricks were thrown at a greenhouse smashing all of the windows. It is the latest in a series of vandalism attacks at the site. Mr Poultney, said the recent spate may force him to reconsider plans.

Mr Poultney, of Alma Street, Colley Gate, who has received lottery fundings said he was worried that the gardens would continue to be targetted by vandals.

"I am creating an allotment for children and adults in wheelchairs but the vandals are winning and it is heartbreaking.

"I am just doing my bit for the community and this is what happens.

"I am worried because the vandalism is increasing and I am worried that everything I do is going to be destroyed and I could be just wasting my time."

Mr Poultney, of Cradley Gardening Club, has also created an allotment at nearby Caslon Primary School, which backs onto the Abbey Road site, but he said that had also been plagued by vandals.

Poly tunnels have been slashed and plants have been dug up.

The 57-year-old has replanted the garden several times because it keeps being attacked by the vandals.

He also runs a gardening club for the youngsters, who enjoy growing their own vegetables.

Earlier this month, allotment holders across the region reported an increase in vandalism at sites including plots off Lady Greys Walk in Wollaston.

In April vandals smashed greenhouses and ruined crops at Bayer Street Allotments in Coseley.

In total six greenhouses were destroyed and thousands of pounds of damage was caused.

Lee Howl Allotments in Robert Road, Tipton, has been plagued by arsonists who burned down a clubhouse and shop.