GILBERT, Wickfords' official Christmas tree was severely vandalised on Halloween when the its tree trunk was snapped leaving a stump less than two foot tall.

Wickford campaigner Chris Jackman said: "Wickford is older than the Domesday book yet until Gilbert came along never had a living Christmas Tree.

"The then Mayor of Basildon Planted Gilbert, he has become part of the community and a landmark, we are dismayed at the mindlessness of these vandals "

Wickford community groups the Womble's and Save Open Space have battled Basildon Council for four years to save Wick Green which has become a community green space, hosting events.

This year they include:

Sunday 3rd Dec from 2.30pm

The Womble Christmas Fete and South Essex Wildlife Hospital fundraiser

Saturday 16th Dec from 3pm

Christmas services and Gilbert's Christmas Party.

In the wake of the vandalism Wickford Wombles have launched a gofundme page with a £900 target to buy a 9ft Christmas tree.

It can be accessed here: https://gofund.me/c3bd867e