Pensioners tending a Dundee allotment say they are desperate for police help as intruders vandalise, steal, and even defecate on the grounds.
The group, most of whom are aged over 70, say there have been at least 30 incidents in the last six months at the council-owned site on Old Craigie Road.
The culprits often leave behind discarded food and steal coffee and biscuits after kicking in doors and breaking locks.
Human faeces has also been discovered in a rhubarb patch as well as a bucket.
One of those to lease an allotment, Martin Leiper, said the repeat incidents are frustrating and sad.
The 72-year-old said: “The guys are having to shell out to fix things almost every week.
“It’s gotten really expensive with all the break-ins recently.
“We just want a little help from the police. We’ve tried to secure it as best we can but these people are still getting in. If they just want food we can give them some.”
The most recent incident at the allotments, which contains space for around 80 patches, happened on Saturday night and saw another door damaged.
A police liaison officer is scheduled to meet the group this weekend to discuss the issue.
Another pensioner, 78-year-old David Thomson, said the allotment is a huge part of his life.
He said: “Some of the guys are talking about packing it in because it’s got so bad.
“I can’t do that; it’s my life now. I’m there every day. It’s like whoever is doing it is down-and-out.”
Chief Inspector David McIntosh, Local Area Commander for Dundee said the force is investigating.
He said: “We are aware of concerns regarding vandalisms and break-ins to allotments in Dundee and are carrying out enquiries into these.
“It is important to properly secure your property to deter thieves from targeting your property and I would ask people to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to Police Scotland on 101.
“More information about keeping safe can be found on our website.
https://www.scotland.police.uk/keep-safe/home-and-personal-property/secure-your-garden-outbuildings/
.”
Security was improved at the allotments, as well as several others across the city, three years ago, using council funds after an increase in vandalism.
