Appledore tree planted in memory vandalised for second time

A memorial tree planted in honour of a grandmother in Appledore has been vandalised for the second time within a year.

Dedicated to Jean Williams, the tree was originally planted in February last year in the town where the family had spent countless happy times over the years.

The decision to plant the tree was rooted in the family's love for Devon. 

ABOVE: Planting the second tree after the first one was vandalised 

Having visited the area for over 25 years, particularly Appledore and Westward Ho!, the family from Liverpool saw it as a fitting tribute to Jean and a way to provide their large family with a spot to remember her and the happy times spent in North Devon.

ABOVE: Jean and her family on holiday in Appledore

Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the family persevered in their quest to preserve her memory by planting the tree.

However, less than 48 hours after planting the tree, it fell victim to an act of vandalism. 

Bleach was poured around its base, ultimately leading to its demise.

Undeterred by this act, the family rallied together and with the support of Torridge Council, a new tree was planted in March 2023. 

But their hopes were shattered once again when news arrived that on Friday, April 19, the newly planted tree had been attacked, with its trunk severed in what appeared to be a deliberate attempt to kill it through ring barking.

Daniel Snow, grandson to Jean, expressed the family's sadness and anger over the repeated vandalism. 

He said: “We are very angry and upset. It's very, very disappointing as this is the second time.”

ABOVE: Dan and his grandmother, Jean

In their search for support and justice, the family reached out to Sir Geoffrey Cox, the MP representing West Devon and Torridge. 

However, they were told that since they did not live in Devon, they did not fall within his constituency and thus could not be represented by him.

ABOVE: The tree was planted in memory of Jean Williams who is featured above.

The Gazette contacted Torridge District Council and local Appledore councillors for a comment but received no response, with one of the councillors not wishing to provide a comment. 

Devon and Cornwall Police told the Gazette: “Devon and Cornwall Police has been made aware of an act of vandalism at a memorial tree, believed to have happened between Thursday 18 April and Friday 19 April in Appledore.

“We take reports of this kind extremely seriously and ask anybody with information to call 101 or visit our website quoting 50240092954.”