CONSERVATION officials have appealed for information following attacks of vandalism on bird boxes at a Hartlepool wildlife haven.

Several boxes, which are known to have contained chicks, have either been destroyed or damaged at Greatham Beck on the town's Fens Estate.

Hartlepool Borough Council's countryside wardens are hoping people who may have witnessed the vandalism will come forward.

Robert Smith, countryside warden, said: "Earlier this year, youngsters living near the beck made 21 boxes, all of which were quickly adopted by either blue or great tits.

"The boxes were secured firmly, high up in the trees so the recent vandalism is likely to have taken some time and it's possible that passers-by might have noticed something.

"We were horrified to discover a box had been completely smashed off one tree and then used to fuel a fire that damaged another tree. What became of the chicks inside the box doesn't bear thinking about.

Anyone who knows the identity of the vandals is asked to call (01429) 853325.