MINDLESS vandals have sparked outrage after destroying planters installed in Burtonwood by a team of volunteers who are trying to brighten up the village.

Clair Lee, who set up Burtonwood in Bloom last year, is supported by a number of volunteers who have donated their time to help improve the village.

Almost £9,000 has been raised for the cause so far.

The volunteers behind Burtonwood in Bloom were also presented with £4,500 by the National Lottery to improve several sites in the village.

But earlier this month, residents were shocked to discover that a number of planters had been damaged.

One resident said: “I feel so sorry for the people involved in the Burtonwood in Bloom initiative to have their hard work thrown back in their faces.

“No doubt we will not find out who did it, although I sincerely hope we do.

“And do you know the most galling aspect of the whole sorry episode is that no-one will be surprised.

“If anyone knows who it is, please share it with us Burtonwooders who are totally embarrassed by these actions.”

Despite the setback, Clair is determined not to be beaten.

She said: “Thank you for all your messages of support. We are all gutted but determined to carry on with our lovely project. We know we have the backing of this wonderful community.

“Burtonwood in Bloom will not be deterred by one or two idiots. Burtonwood is still a great place to live and it will become more colourful as the months go on.

“Dave Bradshaw, from Fir Tree Nurseries, has supplied the replacement flowers for free and delivered them to us on his day off.”

To donate visit gofundme.com/burtonwood-in-bloom.