Authorities are investigating a series of vandalism incidents that targeted the Newark Christmas Tree Festival, which was scheduled to open on December 1, 2025. Offenders struck on the evening of November 30, toppling trees and damaging ornaments located on the Mezzanine floor of the Newark Buttermarket.
Organisers of the festival worked diligently over the weekend to repair the damage and contacted the affected groups. Despite the setback, they successfully launched the festival on December 1. Unfortunately, reports emerged that vandals returned on the night of December 1, causing additional damage to one of the trees.
The Newark Neighbourhood Policing Team has confirmed that the initial vandalism occurred around 17:15 GMT. Officers are actively investigating the incidents and are seeking information from the public. PC Ryan Flaherty stated, “We’re currently trying to locate whoever was responsible and would urge anyone who saw this happen or knows who may have been involved to come forward. It really should go without saying, but this type of antisocial behaviour is completely unacceptable and simply will not be tolerated.”
Anyone with information related to the vandalism is encouraged to contact the police by calling 101 and quoting incident number 130 of December 1, 2025. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
The Christmas Tree Festival is an important community event, bringing together various local organisations and residents. The recent acts of vandalism have sparked concern among those involved in the festival, highlighting the need for community vigilance in preserving such festive gatherings.
