A CHILDREN’S vegetable garden which was spoiled by vandals is now blooming thanks to the efforts of pupils and teachers.
The children were heartbroken after yobs last month kicked the soil out of planters and slit compost bags at Linthorpe Community Primary School.
But after teachers moved the pots to a safer area, the determined youngsters set about repairing the damage.
Now their hard work is finally coming to fruition, with raspberry plants, onions, courgettes and sweet peas beginning to sprout.
“The children have worked really hard on this project and it’s a beautiful garden,” said learning mentor Diane McLernon.
“But obviously when it gets vandalised it disrupts the school environment and upsets the children.
“I have been in touch with the police and they are keeping an eye on the area.
“There are a lot of houses looking onto that area so if anyone sees anything suspicious, could they please get in touch with the community warden.”
The school, which has run gardening as an activity for the children for two years, is taking part in the Dott 07 Urban Farming project, which encourages people and organisations to plant fruit and vegetables locally to reduce food miles. The food the children grow will form part of a community feast in the autumn.
Anyone with information on any vandalism should call police on 01642 303126.