ONE minute the swathe of flowers were the uplifting symbols of spring. Then a tractor trundled down the quiet Hampshire lane. And cut them down.

Sarah Townley is furious that the verges along Vernon Hill, near Bishops Waltham have been cut including on her own land.

Blue bells, primroses, violets, daffodils and stitchwort have been decapitated by the county council contractors.

Ms Townley, of Vernon Hill, said: “I was horrified. It is vandalism of the countryside. That lane was full of bluebells.

“Lots of walkers go along that road and enjoy them. The flowers do not affect any sight lines. I accept some verges have to be cut but not at this time of year. They should be done in the summer.”

Ms Townley said a manager from the Hampshire Highways department had assured her next years the lanes would be cut later.

Steve Ankers, policy officer at the South Downs Society, said: “The society is dismayed and very disappointed that the flora-rich verges of the country lanes around Vernon Hill in the national park have been cut.

“At this time of year many wild species are in flower, some are still in bud while others are just pushing shoots out of the ground to provide summer and autumn splendour in the grass. The maturing of this chalkland floral display is essential if self-seeding is to ensure the survival of our wild flowers in their natural setting.”

Mr Ankers said the use of heavy tractors on the steep slopes of Vernon Hill will also compact the soil and inhibit future germination.

“Orchids, cowslips, fritillaries, primroses, bluebells, bellflowers and violets, amongst others too numerous to mention, are the jewels of our country lanes and their conservation enhances the special qualities of the South Downs National Park,” he added.

The county council was asked for comment but had not replied at the time of going to press.