Bridport charity Christmas tree targeted by vandals

Organisers say local children are getting upset over the missing decorations

A Christmas tree which helps bring in donations for a food bank during the festive season will be removed after it was targeted by vandals.

Locals are invited to hang decorations on the tree, which sits in a planter on West Street in Bridport town centre.

They are then asked to make a donation to Bridport Food Bank.

But following several reports of thefts, including decorations and surrounding signs, organisers have said the scheme would be stopped.

Lloyd Brown from the Grey Bear Bar Company said the tree itself was stolen in 2021 - but a couple managed to retrieve it from a river and put it back.

"But this is the last year we're doing it as the little ones are getting upset," he added.

"The aim of the tree is to raise money for the local food bank - but even the sign saying that has been stolen."

Mr Brown thanked people for their support and donations over the years.

The BBC has contacted Bridport Food Bank for comment.