YOUNGSTERS heartbroken by the vandalism of a sensory garden have welcomed the replacement of an iconic owl.
Children at Ysgol Tir Morfa in Rhyl were left distraught when a chainsaw carved ornament was sawn off and stolen from a specially made seat, but a new bird came home to roost thanks to the community.
Nicola Newell, spokeswoman for the school, said: “After seeing our story in the Journal, a local chainsaw carver from Dyserth, Ian Murray, came in to school to offered his services to replace the owl for our discovery garden. He donated a whole day.
“Shortly afterwards, Gerry Beasley from Rhyl and Prestatyn Lions came in to school to see if there was anything they would be able to do to help. The staff and children in school are delighted.”
Thanks to the Lions, who paid for the materials, youngsters at the school, which caters for pupils with special needs, were able to see Mr Murray in action as he fashioned a replacement owl.
Carol Edwards, head teacher, said: “I am thrilled with the reaction we’ve had from the local community and in particular the kindness of Mr Murray and Rhyl and Prestatyn Lions.
“Without their support there is no way we could have funded a replacement. All the pupils, staff and school governors would like to say a big thank you to Mr Murray and Mr Beasley.”
Ms Edwards said one of the pupils had even described Mr Murray as the school’s hero and another said he they should be awarded an extra raffle ticket, which is how Ysgol Tir Morfa teachers reward children with excellent behaviour.