Windows have been smashed and toilets wrecked at a popular country estate hit by a spate of vandalism. The charitable trust which runs the Gregynog estate, known for its historic manor house and lavish gardens which now make it a popular wedding venue, said it is "incredibly disappointed" by the vandalism.
Historic estate targeted
The Gregynog estate near Caersws in Powys is one of Wales’ premier country estates and was the former home of art collectors and benefactors the Davies sisters. The black and white hall is surrounded by popular walking trails through the 750-acre estate which is a national nature reserve and site of special scientific interest.
The Powys estate - run by a charity The Gregynog Trust - is now a conference centre alongside hosting weddings and educational events.
Recent vandalism spree
The charity said that the estate has been hit by acts of vandalism in recent weeks which has seen windows smashed, toilets left in a "terrible state", as well as signs being damaged. Fires have also been started in the woodlands which are home to "nationally important lichens, insects and other wildlife".
Visit Wales describes the estate as "one of Wales’ most important sites for ancient parkland and wood-pasture habitats".
Trust's response
Speaking about the vandalism, the trust said in a statement: "We're incredibly disappointed by the recent acts of vandalism that have taken place around the Gregynog estate.
"We've had windows smashed, public toilets left in a terrible state, signs damaged, removed, and thrown around but in most recent days we've have had fires started in our woods.
"This kind of behaviour will not be tolerated. If anyone is caught deliberately damaging or destroying property on the estate we will report the matter to the police."
They added: "Gregynog is a charitable trust working hard to restore and preserve this special place for everyone to enjoy. Every act of vandalism diverts valuable time and resources away from that work, setting us back instead of helping us move forward.
"We ask everyone to treat the estate with the care and respect it deserves. If you witness any vandalism or suspicious behaviour, please let us know. Thank you to everyone who continues to support and care for Gregynog."
Local reaction
People have been left angry about the acts of vandalism, with many locals sharing how much they value having the estate on their doorstep.
One person wrote: "This is a sad post to read - why can’t people respect the lovely woodland and property? We enjoy walking our dog and puppy up at Gregynog. Such a great place to have on our doorstep."
Another added: "Shameful behaviour and just imagine if these fires had spread? Gregynog is a very special place with nationally important species in the ancient woods.
"The message should be loud and clear: respect and care for this valuable and vulnerable environment or stay well away from the estate. Let's hope the cameras caught the culprits and they are made to pay for the damage."
