An investigation has been launched after newly planted trees were ripped out of the ground by vandals.

Members of the parks team at Swanscombe and Greenhithe Town Council planted a row of saplings in Knockhall Recreation Ground just before Christmas.

But on Wednesday morning, they discovered the entire all of the plants had been torn from the turf, leaving behind clumps of churned-up earth.

The incident is thought to have happened between 5pm on Tuesday, January 10, and 9am on Wednesday, January 11.

A spokesman for the council said: "Just before Christmas we planted a row of tree whips in Knockhall Recreation Ground.

"Unfortunately on Wednesday this morning, we came in to find they have been ripped out of the ground."

A police spokesman has confirmed the force is investigating the incident.

Detectives are appealing for anyone with information to call them on 01474 366149, quoting the reference number 46/6589/23.