POLICE in Helensburgh are probing the theft of three acer trees from the work compound at Hermitage Park.

The Friends of Hermitage Park say they’re “very upset” at the theft, which happened some time between May 23 and 29.

The Friends said in a statement on their Facebook page: “The trees had been grown from cuttings collected in the park many years ago, and were gifted back to the park by the widow of the gentleman who had propagated them last year as a memorial to him.

“They were in pots waiting to be planted once all the building works are completed in the autumn.

“The Friends and [Argyll and Bute] Council are working hard to to restore and rejuvenate Hermitage Park for the benefit of everyone. Stealing the plants is just not on.”

Police are keen to hear from anyone who may have witnessed the theft or been offered the trees.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact PC Gibson at Helensburgh police office or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.