A MUM has been left devastated after vandals destroyed a memorial for her baby on the anniversary of her death.

The tree to remember Kitty Rogers' child was planted in Bishopdown Sports Field, opposite the Most Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, in February.

The 26-year-old, from East Gomeldon, had just built up the courage and saved enough money to buy the tree, which cost around £650.

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But when Miss Rogers' friends and family went to visit the tree on Friday, June 17, to mark eight years since Evelyn died, they found the top half had been sawn off.

Upon hearing the news, Miss Rogers "broke down" from the shock.

She told the Journal: "I picked that spot because it was in a really nice open playing field. I thought it was lovely.

"I can’t think who could have done this and I want to find out so badly."

Salisbury Journal: Left: Kitty with Evelyn's tree. Right: The vandalised tree.Left: Kitty with Evelyn's tree. Right: The vandalised tree. (Image: Kitty Rogers)

Miss Rogers believes this act of vandalism took place sometime between Wednesday 14 and Saturday 17 June.

The "gorgeous" Evelyn Crab Apple Tree flowered once during its lifetime.

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"It's just devastating. I don't believe someone could cut that much tree down in a public place and just disappear with it," added Miss Rogers.

Salisbury City Council has recovered the remaining stump and will be delivering it to Miss Rogers, who will try her best to maintain it in her back garden.

Salisbury Journal: Kitty Rogers with her mother.Kitty Rogers with her mother. (Image: Kitty Rogers)

Wiltshire Police is appealing for witnesses to come forward.

A spokesperson for the force said: "We are investigating reports of criminal damage to a memorial in the play park, Bishopdown Road, Salisbury.

"The incident happened sometime between the very early hours of Thursday (15/06) and 1pm on Saturday (17/06)."

A Salisbury City Council spokesperson said: "Council Officers are aware of this abhorrent act of vandalism and have been communicating with the family.

"A replacement tree will be planted in conjunction with the family this winter."

Anyone with helpful information or camera footage is urged to contact 101 and quote crime reference number 54230063482.