The police have issued an appeal for witnesses after Wellington park was struck by vandals.

Dozens of plants were uprooted, a fire was set in the toilets, and a seating area was damaged.

In a statement a spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police said:

“Officers on patrol tonight have attended Wellington Park.

“They found plant beds have been vandalised and plants have been pulled up and thrown around, a fire was set alight in the toilets as well as damage to the octagon.

“Officers have already identified some of the people involved and will be taking positive action but would like to hear from anyone else who might have witnessed the incident. Please call 101 ref. number 5223169617.”

The attack came just days ahead of Wellington in Bloom judges making their rounds.

It is understood council workers and some residents replanted many of the flowers in time for the town's annual gardening contest.