Mindless vandalism at Grangemouth wildlife centre

Currently closed due to coronavirus restrictions, the popular natural oasis, located near Wood Street in Grangemouth, was broken into over the weekend by offenders who had themselves a proper “party” – setting a fire in the woodland area, chucking rubbish and damaging signs, a picnic table and even the centre’s raised garden pond.

A Jupiter Urban Wildlife Centre spokesperson said: “Really disappointing to discover Jupiter has been broken into over the weekend. A fire has been set in the woodland and litter has been scattered around the reserve.

"Our amazing raised garden pond has also been damaged in a way that will be very tricky to repair. If you know anyone who you think might have been involved, please speak to them about the impact their actions have.

"This might have been a fun night for the young people involved, but it will take a lot of effort to repair the damage which has been done. Our staff and volunteers work very hard to make Jupiter a fantastic place for wildlife and people, so it's a real blow to see something like this happen.”

Police have been informed about the incident.

Managed by the Scottish Wildlife Trust, Jupiter Urban Wildlife Centre is free to enter and – in normal times – offers a year round programme of events for all ages which includes everything from bird box building, bush-craft to foraging for wild food.

Visit www.facebook.com/JupiterUrbanWildlifeCentre for more information.