A WETLAND restoration project praised by wildlife expert David Bellamy has been sabotaged, causing thousands of pounds of damage.

In the latest of a series of attacks on the nature reserve at Longdon Marsh, near Upton-upon-Severn, structures to control the water collection and flow have been unbolted and stolen.

This allowed stored water to drain from the site, setting back the project to create

wetland and attract back wildlife such as wading birds and wildfowl.

"It is clear that someone is attempting to sabotage the restoration of this wetland reserve," said conservation officer John Hodson, of

the Worcestershire Wildlife Trust. The trust bought Hill Court Farm and The Backlands in 2001 with a grant of £803,500 from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Attacks began in June last year, shortly before Mr Bellamy's visit to celebrate the completion of on-site works. Pumping equipment was damaged, a contractors' caravan was burned down, inspection chambers were made unsafe and gates were lifted off their hinges.

This winter, valves controlling the water collection and flow have been opened on a regular basis to release stored water from the site.

Staff repaired the damage each time, but in the latest act of criminal damage the main control structures were unbolted and stolen.

Mr Hodson said the vandalism was dispiriting, but would not affect the trust's aim of creating a tremendous asset for wildlife, local people and visitors.

"During the five years of the project, we have enjoyed support from local communities and consulted widely to address questions or concerns and comply with statutory regulations," he said.

Rob Williams, the chairman of the Severn and Avon Vales Wetland Partnership, condemned the vandalism.

"We firmly believe the restoration of wetland habitats on Longdon Marsh and other areas along the River Severn floodplain can generate environmental and economic benefits for local communities as well as wildlife," he said.

"Vandalism such as this not only damages wildlife but also undermines the opportunities for developing wider socio-economic benefits."

Police have been informed and anyone with any information is asked to call them or speak to the trust on

01905 754919.