The magical and much-loved Foss Fairy Trail in York has been badly damaged by vandals.
Created during the first pandemic lockdown by Tracy Ostle, the trail consists of a charming assortment of wooden fairy houses, shops, the Green Elf pub, a post office and more.
Families love to explore the trail in Heworth. But now vandals have struck and destroyed several of the exhibits.
The damage happened on Sunday (20 March) between 1.30pm and 5.30pm when fairy houses along the trail were destroyed.
A memorial bench placed on the trail was also completely vandalised and will need to be replaced.
Tracy, who created the trail, said:
I feel sad for whoever has to do this, they can’t take much enjoyment from life!
The trail is getting more and more popular for all age groups. The minority who choose to try and destroy it are affecting the community.
I don’t like to see any damage down there as it will have a negative impact. What we are trying to do is bring some positivity back after all the difficult times we have and are going through.
A bit of joy for free!
Police are are appealing for information about the damage and asking for any witnesses to get in touch.
It is not the first time the fairy houses have been vandalised, but it is the most destructive attack yet.
Anyone with information that could assist the investigation should contact North Yorkshire Police – see the details below.
Meanwhile, Tracy added: “We are doing a treasure hunt from 12-2pm on Sunday 17 April, so hopefully there wont be too much damage to deal with before then.”
How to help the police
- Call North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option 2 and ask for PC 1864 Wilding
- Email PC Wilding here
- Contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via the website
- Quote reference number 12220047580
[tptn_list limit=3 daily=1 hour_range=1]