Damage to trees near disused gravel pit: Maynes Estate, Elgin
(IV30 - Tuesday, 21 July, 2009)

Grampian Police are investigating damage caused to tress within the forest area of Mayne Estate, Elgin.

The incident occurred between 3pm on Thursday 16 July and 8.30am on Sunday 19 July 2009, near to a disused gravel pit on the south side of the estate.

As a result of the incident, a quantity of trees were cut down, the estimated value of damage caused is not known at this time.

Grampian Police are keen to trace anyone who may have been in the vicinity during these dates and who saw any persons acting suspiciously.

Investigating Officer, Constable Mike Mulloy said,

"This area is frequently used by walkers and persons exercising their dogs.

"Recently the area has been used by youths as an out of sight area for consuming alcohol and a large amount of empty alcohol bottles and cans have been left strewn around the area.

"The person responsible for this damage did not have permission to fell the trees and it is apparent that they did not have experience in carrying out this line of work.

Anyone operating this type of equipment without the necessary experience obviously poses a danger to themselves and anyone who may accompany them".

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Grampian Police on 0845 600 5 700.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

Police Force: Grampian

Address:
Mayne Estate
Elgin
Inverness-shire
IV30