Primulas planted on Rochdale canal towpath stolen

Rochdale canal towpath bankside

Flowers planted along the Rochdale towpath bank between Coppy Bridge Drive and Belfield Mill Lane have been stolen.

Colourful primulas had been planted along a section of the banking between bridge 57, near Coppy Bridge Drive, and bridge 56 at Belfield Mill Lane.

It had taken several years to clear the bank of the tall arching prickly brambles, much to the relief of the people whose gardens back onto there and the walkers and cyclist that used the towpath every day.

Once clear, the primulas had been planted for passersby to enjoy, before they were unfortunately taken.

A local resident said: “To the selfish person or people who have stolen all the primulas, they had been donated and then planted by volunteers and were providing a beautiful colourful display for everyone to enjoy as they walked past.

“All of the delight has now been taken away. I hope whoever stole those plants feels guilty enough to take them back and replant where they can be enjoyed by more than yourself.”