Vandals have targeted a memorial garden provided for families to remember little ones who have died.

Emma Oram and her family discovered damage to a heavy duty leaflet holder at the Baby Garden in Ashford’s Memorial Gardens in Church Road on Saturday.

Emma lost her baby son Liam 10 years ago, and the garden became a reality after she and her fellow volunteers raised £28,000.

About 50 leaflets were taken, informing people about the work done by the charity SANDS which she represents as well as asking for the public’s continued support in funding the upkeep of the project.

She and her family are now concerned that those responsible may try to use the leaflets to con unsuspecting people out of cash.

Her dad Chris Twydell said: “The garden is a fantastic place and so many people have taken comfort from knowing there is somewhere special to remember their babies.

“Up until now we’ve only seen minor vandalism, and we’ve been happy that the garden has largely been left alone. It is so sad that some people chose to vandalise such a sensitive area.

“The holder we have replaced, but our concern is probably more around what’s happened to the leaflets. Our worry is that they could be used to try to entice people to give money.

“It is such a great cause and people might be tempted to cough up if someone shows them a leaflet and asks for money. We certainly don’t work that way and would never ask for donations in that way.

"Our concern is probably more around what’s happened to the leaflets. Our worry is that they could be used to try to entice people to give money" - Chris Twydell

“If anyone knows anything about the damage, or sees anyone trying to use the leaflets to ask for donations, we hope they will contact the police.”

The leaflets were taken some time between January 19 and 25.

Anyone suspicious about people using the leaflets is asked to contact police on 101. Anyone with information about the damage is asked to contact PC Steve Burne on 01233 896145.

Alternatively, if you have information but would prefer to remain anonymous, call Kent Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 quoting crime ref: ZY/2552/14.