There have been around 20 reports over the last few weeks, with Elmbridge Borough Council also launching a probe. 

Officers are calling the incidents “mindless damage” and dangerous because of the risk posed to motorists by obstructing roads. 

The council has issued a statement;

“On 28 March it was reported that a number of trees were cut down by chain saw around the Cowey Sale area of Walton-on-Thames.

“Since that time, Surrey Police and Elmbridge Borough Council have identified at least 20 other instances of trees being cut down in Walton and Weybridge. This is concerning to both Surrey Police, Elmbridge Borough Council and residents.

“Surrey Police have issued appeals for information and would like to thank residents for passing on information and sharing these posts. We would like to reassure the local community that we are following up all relevant information and the investigation remains ongoing. Patrols will also be carried out in the areas which have been targeted.

“Elmbridge Borough Commander Inspector Bert Dean said: “I do not underestimate the impact this mindless damage has on the local community as well as the risk it has posed to motorists by obstructing roads. We are looking at every opportunity to identify who is responsible for this and will continue to work closely with Elmbridge Borough Council to tackle this issue. If you have any information which could help, and you have not already got in touch, please contact us. ” 

“You can report any information to us If you have any information which could help, including CCTV footage, please contact us quoting incident reference number PR/ 45210028887."