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VANDALISM at a sensory garden in Aberdour is estimated to have caused around £3,000 worth of damage.
The tranquil space, which is next to the village’s railway station and maintained by a small army of volunteers, was targeted overnight between October 17 and 18.
Eight bamboo poles up to six feet in size were ripped out the ground, circular wooden pieces were damaged, supports from a footbridge were knocked down and the donation box broken open. But despite the upset Aberdour has responded admirably, already raising £780 to help meet the cost of the mindless destruction.
Ian Fleming, chair of Aberdour Community Council, said: “So many people give to the garden and that is Why the damage done is really felt by the village.
“It’s a tremendous asset to Aberdour – I’ve watched it from its creation to now and the amount of time and energy given is incredible. To see it targeted is upsetting to many. The damage will cost around £3,000 I would say.”
Part of the garden which was created to be sensory, full of noises, smells and textures, has been closed off due to safety concerns. It was created in 2010 and has included a whole host of volunteers, including Aberdour in Bloom, but no one group is responsible for it.
Fundraising has already begun and businesses such as McTaggart’s have given takings and collected donations to help meet the repair costs.
A post from the cafe said: “Like many others in the village, we’ve been upset at the vandalism to the sensory garden and the theft of the donation box.
“We love the sensory garden! Our customers use it all the time. It is a thing of beauty. We raised £780 for the Sensory Garden today (Friday), thanks to your purchases and also the many donations, which was amazing to see. The money will do its job but I suspect the great folk who maintain the garden appreciate the solidarity as much.”
Ian added: “The whole village has sprung into action and it exemplifies the spirit of a small community. It’s upsetting but it’s the way that people react that is the measure of them. The garden is invaluable with many even having meetings or going for lunch there. There is a mural noting all the names of the people who have donated and you see just how many people have been involved in it.”
Police Scotland are investigating the vandalism and a spokesperson added: “Enquiries are continuing and anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland through 101, quoting incident number 2707 of Monday, 18 October, 2021. Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
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