Volunteers and residents have been shocked by an act of mindless vandalism at a community beauty spot.

A number of oak trees in Maes y Pant, Gresford, have been hacked down over the last couple of weeks.

And the group which runs the site for the benefit of the community says local residents are up in arms at the act in their woodland at the former quarry site.

A spokesman for the Friends of Maes y Pant said: "We are sickened by this act of mindless vandalism.

"The area in question is known as the viewing platform to the rear of properties on Quarry Brow which overlook the quarry and beyond.

"On a clear day there are impressive views across North Wales to Liverpool.

"The former quarry site is well used by families and local residents are very upset by what has happened.

"The oak trees have taken a number of years to grow and have been kept there to enhance the safety of the walk and because they stabilise the old quarry face.

"We can only speculate as to why they have been destroyed."

Maes y Pant Action Group director, Jerry O'Keeffe[CORR] added: "We don't know exactly when it happened but it was in the last two weeks.

"One of our volunteers reported it. It was fairly recent and the police are investigating. It's just an absolutely terrible thing to do."

If anybody has any information about the vandalism, they are asked to ring North Wales Police on 101 and refer to the crime number RC18021124.

The former quarry was acquired by the action group to manage on behalf of the community, with the deal being completed in March 2011.

Members of the public can use the property for walking, dog walking, jogging and similar leisure activities provided they behave with due consideration for other users and wildlife.

The cutting of trees, shrubs and bushes is strictly prohibited, as is the excavation or creation of artificial hazards or jumps.

MyPAG directors say any person found carrying out such activities will be reported to the police for prosecution for criminal damage.