Vandals destroy memorial tree

Feb 14 2008 by Sian Watts, Rhymney Valley Express

TRESPASSERS have trampled through a memorial garden and destroyed an apple tree dedicated to a four-year-old boy.

“Kian’s Garden” in Abertysswg Primary School was created by fellow pupils in memory of their friend, Kian Davies, who was killed in a car accident in July 2006.

The family of the little boy planted the apple tree for Kian (pictured right), but last week it was snapped by vandals.

Headteacher at Abertysswg Primary, Garry Wells, said: “It has been distressing for everybody. The whole village grieved for Kian, it touched everybody, it was such a sad event.”

Mr Wells explained there is a mosaic saying “Kian’s Garden” at the site, so it is difficult to believe the vandals did not realise the significance of what they were doing.

Mr Wells said: “We are trying to find out who is responsible. We just want to raise awareness that the garden is a special, and we want them to respect that and leave it alone.”

Kian’s 10-year-old sister, Ashleigh, who is still a pupil at the school, has been particularly upset by the incident. Kian’s grandmother, Barbara Jones, said: “Kian’s mother and I were devastated when we heard the news.”

She appealed to the culprits: “Please don’t touch it in future, just leave it alone and hopefully it will grow. I want to urge any witnesses to go to Mr Wells.”

Mrs Jones said the family were waiting for a plaque so the garden can hopefully be put right at the same time that is installed.

Moriah ward councillor, Richard Pugh, said: “It is disgusting it has been vandalised, it is very disappointing. I would urge anyone who knows anything to contact the authorities.”