A COMMUNITY at Lymm has rallied and shown the true meaning of Christmas after heartless thieves chopped down a pensioner’s prized holly tree.
It is believed the holly tree in the garden of 83-year-old Albert Youd on Sandy Lane, Oughtrington, was chopped down and stolen so the leaves could be used to make holly wreaths.
The act of vandalism was discovered by Albert’s 16-year-old grandson Andrew who was left to clean up the mess yesterday morning.
Family friend Nicola Reid posted her outrage on social media sparking a huge response from the local community, including parish councillor Graham Gowland, who launched a fund-raising page which has raised more than £230 in a matter of hours.
Nicola described those responsible as “Scum-bags.” She added: “It was decades old and his pride and joy.I hope it brings nothing but misery to the SCUM who took it.”
Albert’s daughter Ruth Long added: “It was chopped down and left a right mess. I am convinced they have done it to use the leaves to make Christmas wreaths.
“I have spoken to neighbours who told me a big guy with a beard chopped it down claiming to be a tree surgeon. He was a big fella in his 40s and was driving a big white van. He claimed he was doing the job as a favour for free.
“It absolute sickens me.”
Albert was out at a hospital appointment when the incident happened.”
Meanwhile Cllr Gowland has set up a collection on paypal to replace the Holly Tree stolen from Sandy Lane. Any funds left over, or if the tree can’t be replaced will be donated to Oughtrington Community Centre.
Graham said: “There may be some PayPal fees, but no other admin costs will be deducted. The replacement tree may not be a Holly, but will be chosen by the owner.”
Anyone who would like to contribute to the fund can do so via https://www.paypal.com/pools/c/80lxHnZV97
