Hilary Astley, who maintains the area on the Shamfields Estate, told the Standard there hasn't been much more trouble, and that a gap has been made in the fence for people to walk through.

Residents took over the former Toc H site two years ago and a committee decided to turn it into a wild area for people to enjoy sitting in.

Mrs Astley said: "Some people think of it as my garden but it is an area for the community to enjoy a peaceful space.

"People have said how sorry they are and asked me not to stop doing it because they think it's a lovely area and appreciate the beauty.

"I won't give up because I like to see it and I enjoy it. People have given so many shrubs and plants and come by and say they have this or that they can donate."

Three new bird boxes have been put up and it is hoped a new tree will be planted in the near future.

Last weekend Mayor Coun Jim Swanson joined members of the unpaid workers scheme at the site to cut the hedges to a lower level, and town clerk Sarah Marshall said it is hoped people doing community service will help maintain the site once a month.

Mrs Astley added: "If we lower the hedge people will see into the copse and it will be less private to do damage."

"I also intend to replace the hedgehog house as they need it at this time of year and I am cutting back plants so it will be better this year and more established.

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