The public is being urged to help stop a spate of crime at the Tynwald National Park and Arboretum in St John’s.
The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA) is asking people to be vigilant and report anything they see that is suspicious.
In the most recent incidents, an historical plaque was stolen and a commemorative tree destroyed, while grass was damaged by fire and branches of another tree were broken.
The granite plaque was unveiled by King Olav of Norway when he visited the park in Millennium Year, 1979. The ruined tree was dedicated to a late member of forestry staff.
Zac Hall MHK, Chairman of the Forestry Directorate of DEFA, said:
‘The National Park and Arboretum was established to commemorate the millennium of Tynwald more than 30 years ago and it houses a collection of exotic, naturalised and native trees from many parts of the temperate world.
‘Encouraging people to use the Isle of Man’s wonderful amenities and green spaces is one of my Department’s key aims and it is frustrating that the behaviour of a small, mindless minority threatens to spoil this beautiful, peaceful place for others.’
Anyone with information about the vandalism, or who witnesses anti-social behaviour in the park, should report it either to the Department on +44 1624 801263 or Peel Police on +44 1624 842208.
Mr Hall said the damage all took time and money to put right.
‘With help from members of the public, we hope that the park can continue to be a place much appreciated by its many visitors, both local and from further afield, for many years to come,’ he said.