Newport Victoria Park vandalised after £320,000 revamp

A Shropshire park which underwent a £320,000 transformation has been trashed by "mindless idiots" who caused more than £1,000 of damage.

The vandals went on a wrecking spree across Victoria Park, Newport, snapping saplings in half, pulling up hedges and damaging a metal fence.

They also attempted to push a boulder into the park's stream. It is estimated the attack, which happened over the weekend, will cost Telford & Wrekin Council about £1,000.

Councillor Eric Carter, the council's cabinet member for regeneration, said the people of Newport would not let the "thugs" drag down the town's good name.

"The mindless idiots who have done this are ruining this fantastic facility for the whole community — it's an insult to everyone in Newport and a real kick in the teeth for everyone who has worked so hard to transform Victoria Park into a place that all of the town can enjoy," he said.

"We won't hesitate to press charges against the perpetrators and our Safer Communities Unit is working on a number of actions to support this and are putting appropriate measures in place to ensure this does not happen again.

"The council has already appealed for local people to join a Friends of Victoria Park group to help promote its use," he added.

Councillor Adam Stanton, of Newport Town Council, who is also a borough councillor, said: "It is an action of a few mindless citizens."

Chris Ammonds, spokes-man for Newport police, said officers would be investigating the incident.

Anyone with information can call police on 0300 333 3000 or the council's anti-social behaviour line on (01952) 384384.

To join the Friends of Victoria Park group call (01952) 380000.