Farmer’s fury at vandals
Louts target important Site of Special Scientific Interest
MACHINERY being used to protect a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) has been vandalised for the second time in six months.
The important SSSI site, which is located behind All Saints Church in Deganwy and known as the Vardre, is farmed by Dewi Jones.
His family have farmed the land for nearly a century, although the land is owned by Mostyn Estates.
Natural Resources Wales has been working alongside Dewi to manage the site in a way which will allow plants such as Maiden Pink and Alexanders to flourish.
New fencing and gates have been erected and gorse, bracken and briars are being cleared.
Dewi said: “As part of this work, a mechanical excavator has been used.
“Since January of this year, whilst being left overnight on the site, the excavator has been attacked twice by persons unknown.
“A glass door pane was demolished in the first attack by being broken with stones, and tools were stolen.
“On the night of Friday, May 29, after being on site for only 24 hours, the excavator was again attacked.
“This time, four glass panes were smashed by large rocks, tools were stolen and a crowbar was also taken.”
The total cost of all the damage amounted to more than £3,000.
Dewi said: “I’m furious, as it’s nothing but vandalism and it’s happening on a site that is of great botanical importance in the area.
“The police have been told about both incidents, and I hope that local people can come forward and give some information.
“Persons who carried out the last attack may be in possession of a steel crowbar, which in the wrong hands can be a dangerous weapon.
“All this damage means the important work we are trying to do is being delayed.
“I don’t think the people of Deganwy realise the importance of this site. There needs to be more information boards to educate people, as it really is a special site and needs to be protected.”