AN Evesham company plagued by vandalism has had its security plans rejected.

But bosses at Evesham Foods are set to appeal directly to Wychavon District councillors, after town councillors opposed plans for a security fence.

The catalogue of vandalism at the firm includes a number of break-ins and damage to staff property.

It was also hit by an arson attack in May, this year, which caused damage valued at £35,000.

As well as the fence, the company wants to put up a mobile security gatehouse at its St Richard Road factory on the Four Pools Industrial Estate.

But at a planning meeting councillors decided to oppose the plans.

They believed the fence would spoil the look of the area and are requesting district councillors refuse permission.

"We're disappointed at the town councillors' decision," said Evesham Foods general manager Richard Stowey, "especially following numerous incidents at our factory.

"We're a business threatened by vandalism, arson and theft.

"We not only want to protect our property but the property of the 450 people who work here."

Wychavon planning officer for the south, Mark Lynch said the plans would normally be decided by officers, but could now go before a planning committee at the request of a local district council member.

"It's a high quality fence," he said.