A newly-planted garden feature of a Royston park has been destroyed by vandals.

Vandals struck Priory Gardens last night by pulling up herbaceous borders planted three days ago.

North Hertfordshire District Council’s grounds team are currently assessing the damage made, retrieving any plants that can be saved and clearing the area up.

Replanting will start next week and temporary fencing will be erected to minimise the risk of further damage.

Council leader Lynda Needham said: “It is a real pity that this area of Priory Gardens has been vandalised – there is no excuse for this kind of selfish behaviour.

“The effects of ruining the flowering beds sadly impacts on the users of the park as well as having cost implications to council tax payers.”

The police force has been notified and witnesses are encouraged to come forward with information by calling the non-emergency number on 101.