Nature lover Frances Goldstone has slammed thieves who last week stole timber railings from fencing at the entry to Conygre Mead Nature Reserve.

Mrs Goldstone, chair of Malmesbury River Valleys Trust, said: “This is not vandalism.

“The fence has been deliberately dismantled, bolts removed and the timber taken away.

“The cost of maintaining the Nature Reserve comes from grants and subscriptions or donations by organisations and individuals who care about conservation and the environment. “The Nature Reserve is maintained by hard working volunteers who give their valuable time to ensure the future of this haven for the local community to enjoy so this is particularly galling.

“Obviously whoever did this has no conscience or concern for their environment.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Malmesbury Police on 08454087000.