‘Best community in country’ replaces vandalised tree

TWO sisters have thanked the "best community in the country" after their mother's memorial tree was vandalised.

And Karen and Jane Breakspear had a special thank you to big-hearted Mark Grant who planted a replacement tree at the site on Finchampstead Road.

Two weeks ago, The Wokingham Paper told how a tree and plaque in honour of Maureen Breakspear and her friend Mary Marshall, were ripped up during a night of mindless vandalism.

Karen and Jane were horrified the small conifer tree – planted just two years ago – had been snapped and left lying on the ground. The plaque had also been dented.

Both were placed there to remember Maureen and Mary who were heavily involved in charity and community work in Finchampstead.

The two best friends died three years ago just six months apart.

Neighbours and people across Finchampstead immediately offered to launch a go-fund-me webpage to replace the tree.

The sisters were delighted when Mark, who works at landscape specialists, Practicality Brown, offered to replace the tree with a small oak.

“We were overwhelmed by the good wishes and support from loads of people in the community,” said Jane.

“We received phone calls and messages on social media. People stopped us in the street to say how angry they were. Everyone was horrified at the thoughtless behaviour of a small group of people who not only destroyed the memorial but caused damage to people's property and businesses.”

Jane said she and Karen have known Mark since primary school and were delighted when he contacted them.

“Mark said he would have a word with his bosses about replacing the damaged tree. It was a very kind gesture and typical of Mark who is such a nice person.”

Last Wednesday, Mark arrived with a 10-year-old oak tree which he planted at the site of the damaged memorial.

“Like everyone else, I was angry to hear about this vandalism,” he explained.

“I knew we had an oak tree which we had grown from an acorn 10 years ago. I spoke to the boss and he said we should donate it.

“This is a lovely community and we won’t allow a few people to spoil it”

Locals have promised to look after the tree and Mark will also keep his eye on it when he passes the site on the way to work.

Added Jane: “This is a lovely outcome to a sad situation. We can only hope the vandals will stop and think about their behaviour.

“We have the best community in the country and we want to thank everyone who contacted us and to Mark and Practicality Brown for their kind gift.”