RESIDENTS and businesses have hit out after ‘mindless’ yobs vandalised a Christmas tree that was to be the centrepiece of a charity event.

Police now want to speak to three men who were seen to throw empty beer bottles at houses and cars just before the incident.

The Christmas tree at Chalbury Corner, Preston, was donated by local businesses and residents gather to the Christmas on the Green event every year.

Money raised is donated to the Weldmar Hospicecare Trust.

The tree and decorations cost £300 and was donated by Goadsby, Chalbury Wine Stores and Trinity Street Christmas Trees

Karen Smith, the director of Goadsby, said: “We have been putting on a Christmas Event at Chalbury Corner for the past eight years called Christmas On The Green. This year it is in aid of the Weldmar charity and the event is held on Thursday 18 December 2014.

“The illuminated tree is the centrepiece to the carol singing, Father Christmas and other festivities.

“The behaviour of the offenders is mindless and ignorant and affects the wider community. In doing this the offenders not only put themselves at risk but also passers-by. We hope the behaviour of a few individuals will not affect the enjoyment of this event by the wider community.”

Grant Usmar, director of fundraising at Weldmar, said: “Staff at Weldmar are saddened at this news. We have enjoyed support from businesses at Chalbury Corner for a number of years and we are glad to hear they are persevering with this event despite the damage that has been done.”

A resident of Preston, who did not want to be named, slammed the ‘disgusting and senseless behaviour’.

She said: “How very sad that a few mindless idiots felt the need to climb the newly erected Christmas tree situated outside the shops on Chalbury Corner at Preston. By doing so the tree was damaged and many pounds worth of lights were broken.”

A spokesman for Dorset Police said no arrests have been made in connection with the incident, which occurred on Saturday, December 6.

The three men police want to speak to were seen walking along Halstock Close after a party at the village hall just after midnight.

Police Constable Adam Bayliss, of Weymouth police, said: “I believe the same offenders then moved on to Preston Road where they severely damaged a Christmas tree at Chalbury Corner.

“I urge anyone who witnessed either incident or has any information about those responsible to contact police.

“Also, I would like to hear from a passer-by who was walking a small dog in the area of Chalbury Corner who may be able to assist with my enquiries. The only description I have is that he was wearing reflective trousers.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police on 101.