The people responsible for vandalising "popular" floral displays in Watford town centre have been described as "selfish".

In June, a large number of new displays were introduced throughout the high street to improve the look and feel of the town.

But Watford Business Improvement District (BID), which has led on the project, says there have been several incidents already where the flowers have been pushed over or "significantly" damaged.

The chief executive of Watford BID, Maria Manion, said: "We are extremely disappointed that such a brilliant addition to our town has been spoiled by selfish individuals.

"Every year we receive plenty of compliments and thanks for the floral displays, and it is great credit to our town centre businesses that they invest in Watford town centre to improve the experience for its users.

"We hope that the culprits can be identified and that we have no more repeats of these unfortunate incidents."

One photo posted to Facebook from outside Costa Coffee shows an empty pot with soil and what's left of the display smeared over the pavement.

Watford Observer: A damaged floral display in Watford High Street. Credit: Colin CampbellA damaged floral display in Watford High Street. Credit: Colin Campbell

Much of the display is in or on top of a bin next to the pot - it is unknown who put the flowers in the bin.

Watford BID says the "unacceptable behaviour" that has been committed recently has been reported to police and CCTV will be analysed.

The organisation, which is funded by town centre businesses, added it is paying for several floral displays to be replanted because it knows they are a hit with businesses, residents and visitors.

Members of the public who have helped prop the planters back after up and clear up any mess after being knocked down have been thanked by BID.

Watford legend Luther Blissett, who was awarded freedom of the borough last year, said the vandals should be "ashamed" of themselves.

He added in a Facebook post: "[This is] not the 'Watford Way'. I was brought up to respect people and things around me. To be grateful.

"I hope that whoever did this is recognised. And highly recommend six month verge tidying and general social conscience jobs."