A DESPERATE plea for help has been made to crack down on vandals ruining a new nature reserve.

Yobs have been causing havoc at Canvey Wick nature reserve, off Northwick Road, by riding motorbikes, starting fires, damaging fences and endangering staff and volunteers working there.

The problems have caused delays to important habitat work, which is under way to help protect the rare shrill carder bee and scarce emerald damselfly, and to improve access to the site.

Now, the RSPB, the Land Trust and Buglife, who manage the site, are working together with local councillors and Natural England to try to protect the nature reserve.

Doreen Anderson, chairman of Canvey Town Council, said: “We are in total agreement with the RSPB and partners that this vandalism must be stopped. The police continue to be vigilant in catching those who wish to spoil a wonderful nature site that will benefit residents of Canvey and beyond.

“If the RSPB and partners are allowed to continue to carry on with their plans for Canvey Wick, without interference from vandals, then next year the site will be opened up for the public to enjoy this wonderful facility of wildlife and nature trails.

“We ask the public to report to the police any antisocial behaviour they may see going on.”

Simon Pile, from the Land Trust, said: “Canvey Wick is a really special place for all these wonderful rare and important insects and we are working hard to restore the habitat to make it even better for these amazing creatures.

“However, damage done on the reserve is making it more difficult for us to complete the work that will allow these important species to thrive.”

Reported incidents will be followed up and wherever possible action will be taken against antisocial behaviour on the legallyprotected Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Anyone found guilty of an offence faces prosecution and could be liable for a fine of up to £20,000.

The 230-acre site is one of only six in the UK which is home to the shrill carder bee, and is the only place in the country to see the flower hartwort. Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101.