A MILVERTON couple claim they have been the victims of criminal damage and vandalism on their land. Geoff Hill and his wife Sue planted five native shrubs and two ornamental cherry trees on an embankment which runs behind their house. The trees and shrubs had been established for four years. However, last week they were chopped down without their knowledge or agreement. Geoff said: “We were saddened to find the trees we planted in Burgage Lane had been sawn down.” Mr Hill and his wife own the lane that runs behind their house which they bought in 1996. The lane is used for access to other properties and also leads to Houndsmoor. The couple have no problem with people using the lane as it is agreed access between residents. It has been recorded that there have been multiple attempts to remove/damage the trees and shrubs. Geoff added: “In May I noticed that six of the bushes had been severely pushed over however, I managed to reinstate them and re tie them.” It seems that no matter what Mr Hill did to protect the trees has ultimately failed. A further instance prompted Geoff to secure the bushes using metal stakes and rope, both of which were removed and piled up on the lane by the offender. Soon after these attempts Mr Hill contacted the local police and town council. He said: “The police were very accommodating and have issued the offence as criminal damage.“The local council assured me that it was not them who removed the bushes and shrubs and they seemed as confounded as I was.” Geoff and his wife have lived in Milverton since 1988 and have run the local newsagents in the past.“We are more sad than anything, we tried to improve the environment and feel as though we have been knocked back.” Geoff said.