A FUNDRAISING drive has been launched to rebuild a community garden after it was torched by vandals.

The Gazette revealed last month how a large polytunnel at the garden, in the grounds of Lochwinnoch Parish Church, was set alight by intruders, with tools and other equipment being destroyed.

Now villagers are seeking help to get the project up and running again.

Peter Livingstone, who was growing aspen trees in the polytunnel as part of a national forestry project, says the total cost of the damage could be £20,000.

He has now launched an online ‘gofundme’ drive for that amount.

Peter said: “Lochwinnoch Community Garden is a valuable resource for the people of the village.

“Unfortunately, we suffered a terrible setback when the polytunnel was completely destroyed by vandals.

“In a flash, our collection of tools, equipment and materials, built up over many years, was lost, as well as many plants.

“However, we are determined to rebuild and we are now raising money for the clean up, to replace the polytunnel and all the lost items and to install greater security measures.”

To donate, visit www.gofundme.com/lochwinnoch-community-garden