Memorial tree for grandmother-of-eight destroyed in 'heart-breaking' vandalism in Portchester

The silver birch tree was planted in Wicor Recreation Ground in memory of Fareham resident Bell Cook, who died on her 61st birthday in 2016.

A memorial service was held at the tree’s planting in 2017, with Fareham Borough Council donating a tree that was due to be planted on the site as part of its arboricultural work across the area.

Bell’s husband, Barry, and their three children have frequently visited the site to lay flowers and pay their respects, including on the anniversary of her death.

Kyla Smith, Bell’s daughter, said when she was told about the vandalism it felt like she was receiving the call to say her mother had died ‘all over again’.

The 35-year-old said: ‘My uncle saw a post on social media about the vandalism and he called me – I burst into tears instantly.

‘We wanted something lasting for her, and now the tree has been completely destroyed.’

‘The grief has been bad enough to get through – this had been the first year where I had started to come to terms with it.’

Bell, who was born in Glasgow, died in Rowans Hospice just eight weeks after being diagnosed with lung cancer, with her family praising the care she received at the centre.

Kyla added: ‘She was an extremely brave, strong woman.’

The tree was seen as a private area of reflection removed from Bell’s resting place at Portchester Crematorium - with the family deciding against a plaque alongside the silver birch as they feared it would attract vandals.

Kyla said: ‘We did think of adding a plaque, but my dad said he was worried that it would actually attract vandals, who would trash it to be hurtful.’

‘I would like to put a plaque in place on a new tree.’

Fareham Borough Council has offered to replace the tree later in the year during its next stage of planting.

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