MORE than 50 trees which mysteriously appeared and disappeared in Merstham have left residents stumped.
A couple of months ago eight trees were planted in Radstock Way and around 50 in Brook Road park.
Residents and dog walkers were thrilled at the new additions, but at a loss to explain where the plants had come from.
Now, in the latest twist, workers from Reigate and Banstead Borough Council have come along and removed all the new saplings, saying they pose a health and safety risk because they do not know who planted them.
The phantom tree planter – who we've dubbed Spruce Wayne – has left residents bemused.
Linda Shirley lives in Radstock Way and walks her dog every day in the open space.
She said: "The trees were like a little orchard, we thought they were lovely but we didn't know anything about where they had come from.
"They had just come out and were blossoming – we wondered how long they would last with the vandals, then suddenly they were gone. I wondered whether the people who clear the woods out had put them up, but I don't know anyone who knows anything."
She added: "I can't see a member of the public deciding to go out and put up a load of trees."
The trees on both sites looked professionally planted but the council said their mysterious appearance meant they had not cleared the required safety checks for pests and diseases, and consequently had to be removed.
Initially some residents assumed the council themselves had planted them.
James Taylor, of Malmstone Avenue, said: "What's going on? Were there complaints or did they make a mistake?
"The park could do with some attention. The trees would have been nice especially for the youngsters; it's a bit of a field at the moment surrounded by houses."
The trees arrived overnight in March but then, on Thursday last week, residents woke up to find they had gone as fast as they had arrived.
Council spokeswoman Hannah Blackburn said: "The identity of the person or persons who planted the trees is unknown.
"As such, and because their planting was unauthorised, the council's Parks and Countryside Team is removing them.
"It is essential that trees are obtained from a reputable supplier to prevent the spread of infectious pests and diseases."
Do you know who planted the trees? Call the newsdesk on 01737 783869 or e-mail editor@sur reymirror.co.uk
