PRESTON'S allotment workers are setting up a PlotWatch scheme to nip vandalism in the bud.

The idea came after 180 panes of greenhouse glass on Deepdale plots were smashed in an early morning attack, causing hundreds of pounds worth of damage and much misery.

Policemen have already begun to patrol the plots, and Preston's Allotment Association is seeking funds to produce posters and stickers warning gardeners to be extra vigilant.

Chair of the Association Dave Latham said: "It's heart-breaking for the plot holders, many of whom are elderly people who put a lot of time into their work. We want to bring allotment-goers together to support each other."

Eric Tailor, whose patch was struck, said the damage is devastating. He said: "I felt like giving up. Repairing the greenhouse sets you back weeks and means you can't tend to your plants and veg."

Bored teenagers are being blamed for this recent raid but one plot holder, who does not want to be named, thinks cultivators should look closer to home to nail the culprits.

He said: "It's easy to blame kids but trouble can be caused internally. It's like a war here and highly political. Someone sees your nice allotment and thinks you've got better cabbages than them so they sabotage it, but it's never provable."

In past attacks, other allotment gardeners have had tools stolen, plants destroyed, vegetables dug up and chemicals poured over produce.

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