Vandals have repeatedly trampled flower beds planted by a community to mark the centenary of the Great War.

A Good Samaritan, who asked not to be named, got people together to plant the plot by the war memorial outside Bourne Hall Park in Ewell Village in July.

He said: "It was quickly transformed from a wasteland into a marvellous red, white and blue sea of colour.

"Although some of the plants were donated, I paid for the majority of them myself. Since July I have been to the flower bed about twice a week to weed and water the plants.

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Before the vandalism

"They thrived until about two weeks ago, when those nearest to the war memorial got trampled underfoot. I moved plants from another area only to have them trampled.

"I again moved some, but this week the whole half of the bed nearest to the Memorial has lost all but five blue plants - all of the red and white ones have been destroyed."

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The flower bed in July

Following the repeated attacks, he now plans to ask the council to plant some shrubs in the flower bed.

He said: "It’s a shame because it is right next to the war memorial. I’m really cross about what happened, but there’s nothing I can do."

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The volunteers planting the flowers

An Epsom Council spokeswoman said: "The council is sorry that the flower beds have been trampled on and is keen to work together with the volunteers to help repair the damage and maintain these beds in the future."

Councillor Clive Woodbridge said: "I am sorry that damage has taken place to these beds, and that this has undermined the good works of the volunteers. 

"Hopefully they will not be dispirited. I will be asking the council to get in touch with the volunteers so that we can work together to restore and maintain the beds in good condition."