Image Credit: Chris Brockway
Planters in Bargates have been restored thanks to fast action from local residents and businesses after they were vandalised in the early hours of Father’s Day.
Five three-tiered pedestal planters were knocked over on Sunday 15 June by three individuals. The damage left plants scattered across the pavement.
Within hours, members of the Bargates community came together to clean up the mess and replant the displays. Among those who helped were Chris Brockway, Richard Oswald from PP Printing and Vice Chair of Christchurch & District Chamber of Trade and Commerce, Jamie Lafferty from We Love Group, and Christchurch Mayor Viv Charrett.
They were joined by other local volunteers and supported with refreshments from Christchurch Baptist Church.
The Mayor said the volunteers responded quickly to put everything back and hoped most of the plants would survive.
Louise Berkhauer, Christchurch BID’s Operations Manager, praised the community response and said the quick action reflected the kindness and strength of people in the town.
The incident has also led to increased online reporting and awareness from residents.
Despite the setback, the effort from volunteers ensured the planters were upright and replanted by the end of the morning, reflecting a strong sense of community spirit in Christchurch.