ALCESTER Town Council has hit out at "senseless" vandals that set fire to new play equipment in Moorfields Park.

In a series of arson attacks, yobs caused costly damage a brand a new swing, tore up the rubber safety surfacing and removed safety caps at the play area in Moorfield Road.

Police were called to the latest report of arson at the park on Thursday, May 26.

Offenders had set alight the swing, which was only installed for two months ago, between Tuesday, May 23 and 9am on Wednesday, May 24.

A spokesman from Alcester Town Council said: "Arson attacks, no matter how small they start out are incredibly dangerous and the town council are dismayed that anyone would consider it an appropriate action, especially in an area specifically for the younger members of our community to feel safe in whilst having fun.

They added that "senseless vandalism" endangers children’s safety and costs thousands in repair work.

Councillor Jim Kenyon, chair of the facilities committee, said he did not know exactly how much the damage would cost to fix but thought it would be very expensive as the swing was suitable for all children, including disabled.

He said: "After listening to our residents, the facilities committee have worked very hard over the last year to improve the play areas and equipment within the town, so that the young can enjoy safe play in the open spaces available, resulting in new equipment, surfacing and a new skate-park.

"It is very disheartening to see these acts of vandalism which spoil these areas for all. I would like to appeal to all residents young or old, if you see any misuse or bad behaviour in our play areas please report it."

Anyone with information is urged to contact Warwickshire Police on 101, quoting incident number 70 of Saturday, May 26.