Young trees have already been targeted by vandals just a month after they were planted.

Hundreds of trees including hornbeam, hazel, spindle, lime, field maple, oak and beech, were planted at Lancing’s McIntyres Field.

Adur District Council spoke of its frustration at the incidents and said the trees have been damaged three or more times.

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The planting was done in an effort to expand the area’s woodland, which will support biodiversity and increase tree cover in the district. It is hoped the trees will also improve air quality in the area.

A council spokesman said: “Our rangers have visited the field twice and, with the support of helpful locals, replaced the trees’ protective tubes and stakes which had been damaged. However, the site has now been sadly vandalised again in the last few days.

“We will replace the damaged equipment again but would encourage anyone with information about the vandalism to contact Sussex Police.”