VANDALS have damaged a popular bird hide on Two Tree Island.

Weeks after another was set on fire, a second hide has been ruined at the cherished spot run by Essex Wildlife Trust.

Conservation officer Macbradan Bones said: “It’s concerning to say the least, we’re so disappointed.

“We had so much support from people last time; we had a lot of donations so to see it happen again is such a shame.

“It was really popular, especially over winter when the Brent geese flock to Essex in their thousands.

“At the moment, we have nesting wading birds which now the public can’t see.

“I hope the birds weren’t disturbed, they can be really sensitive.

“It’s an unnecessary cost, but we are still looking to replace both.

“They may be damaged beyond repair but this one will cost upwards of £800, with the other between two to three thousand.”

However he refused to lose heart.

Mr Bones said: “It’s a phoenix moment for us, they will be bigger and better.

“I certainly hope to get them done by winter and I’m hoping for more vandal-proof hides.”

Mr Bones thanked the public for their kind words and support and hoped that donations would continue.

More than £800 was donated after the first hide was targeted by arsonists.

During that attack in April the hide on the island was completely gutted.

Within it was a picture board for birdwatchers to identify species, which was completely destroyed.

The £1,500 board was supplied by a family from Westcliff in memory of Marion Boulton who died in 2015 at the age of 83.

Her husband, Michael Boulton, 83, tragically died in the same year a few days after a fire at his home in Arundel Gardens.

His daughter-in-law, Sarah-Jayne Boulton, 42, and son Billy, 44, who lost everything in the house fire having moved in to look after Michael, have been left distraught at the act of vandalism.

They have since helped to raise hundreds of pounds to replace it.

Mr Bones said: “The amount of positivity for us is amazing.

“It’s been really heartening, and we won’t let it get to us.” Police are investigating the latest attack. Call 101 with crime reference 42/84425/19.