A MAN has been arrested on suspicion of criminal damage following a spate of vandalism at a city centre garden.

Old Steine Gardens were left in a "horrific state" after plants had been ripped up and discarded, with some fencing also pulled from the ground and thrown around.

Police responded to reports of a person digging up plants at the gardens on Tuesday afternoon (February 8).

He has been released under investigation while enquiries continue.

Anyone who saw what happened is being urged to contact police online or by calling 101, quoting serial 582 of 08/02.

Founder of the Old Steine Community Association Gary Farmer said he was left with a "feeling of revulsion" when he saw what had happened to the gardens.

In an email to councillors and City Parks, seen by The Argus, he said the gardens had been left in a "horrific state" and have become a "wasteland", criticising the council for not doing more to protect the area from damage and neglect.

A spokesman for the council said it was "appalled by the mindless vandalism" and said the council is in contact with the police to provide a cost for the damage caused.

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