A tree has been replanted within hours after it was 'ripped out of the ground' by teenagers. 

The incident happened on Saturday, July 6, at Oldbury Road Playing Fields in St John's.

Local residents who were in the park at the time saw the incident happen and quickly intervened before any more damage could be done. 

Bertie Ballinger from Friends of Laugherne Brook, said: "In February I planted six fruit trees in the Oldbury Road Playing Field, which is now a great location for dog walkers to congregate and we have also installed a new bench which is lovely. 

"However on Saturday some teenagers came into the park and ripped one of the new trees out of the ground, destroying it. 

"Local residents shouted at them, so hopefully it can be saved."

The incident was reported to the local community support officer at West Mercia Police who then organised for the tree to be replanted by Worcester City Council.

Mr Ballinger continued: "There seems to be an increase in antisocial behaviour in the park in recent times. 

"It was only last month that our Friends of Laugherne Brook sign was removed and it has still not been replaced. 

"I don't know why kids seem to be doing this, the St John’s and Bedwerdine Neighbourhood Team were not informed on the day about this, as I feel not enough residents know about this group of PCSO’s and police who operate just around the corner. 

"It cannot be understated how frustrating it is for residents to work towards improving our parks, only to see them destroyed by a few individuals.

"We will continue to work hard for our park to make it a better place for all."