Close to a quarter of a million pounds raised for vandalised Harlow allotment

The incident happened during the week.

Author: Tom FeahenyPublished 16th Apr 2023
Last updated 16th Apr 2023

An investigation is continuing by Essex Police into the damage of an allotment in Harlow.

Salt had been poured over the soil of Carly Burd's allotment that had helped over 1,000 people with food parcels since September.

The incident was reported to have taken place between 2pm on 7 April and 9am on 8 April.

A GoFundMe account has now raised over £240,000.

PC Samuel Chilvers, PC Natalie Smith and PCSO River Perry, of Harlow’s Community Policing Team, carried out checks for doorbell and CCTV footage and spoke to neighbours.

Chief Inspector Paul Austin, District Commander for Harlow said:

“Carly is naturally devastated about this mindless act, which has caused real harm to her efforts to help those most in need in Harlow,” he said.

“However, it is striking how determined she is to ensure this act does not stop her good work.

“The support she has received both here in the community and from across the country has been truly heart-warming.

“We take all matters of criminal damage seriously and are conducting a thorough investigation.

“We need anyone who may have information about this incident to come forward, your reports to us do matter and make a huge difference.”

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