‘Outrage’ at theft of public picnic table
Kingsclere community orchard amenity only installed two months ago
KINGSCLERE Parish Council has expressed its “outrage” after a new picnic table installed in the community orchard was stolen.
The council had put two picnic tables in the orchard – off Longcroft Lane next to the allotments – just two months ago ready for the warmer spring and summer weather.
However, one of the two tables – which cost £1,167 and were paid for from Section 106 funds from developers – disappeared during the week, with the council believing it was taken last Wednesday night.
Posting on Facebook, a spokesperson for the council said: “We are disappointed and outraged that one of the new picnic tables we installed in the community orchard less than two months ago has been stolen.
“The tables are extremely heavy (I know, I helped carry them into position) and very unwieldy.
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It would have taken several people and a large trailer or van to take it. They must have made a considerable disturbance
“It would have taken several people and a large trailer or van to take it. They must have made a considerable disturbance.
“It’s naturally very disappointing when things like this happen.
“However, Kingsclere is still a beautiful, friendly village and a wonderful community to live in.
“We will continue to strive to improve the village for everyone who lives here.”
The council asked if anyone saw something suspicious or knows anything about the theft to report it to the police, using crime number INC20220407-1804.
Additionally, if anyone living near the orchard or the allotment has dash cam or CCTV footage that may potentially show the thieves to check it and get in touch with the council.
Hampshire Police have also advised the council that the thieves may return for the second table, and the council has requested people who spot something suspicious to call the police.
The Kingsclere community orchard was first planted in