A SEVERE spate of vandal attacks in Wychavon parks over one weekend has caused thousands of pounds worth of damage.

Vines Park, Droitwich, Memorial Garden in Abbey Park, Pershore and Abbey Park, Evesham, were all targeted.

The popular Wych Barge, installed in Vines Park in 2011, has seen consistent graffiti and damage.

The boat has been left with holes after vandals reportedly kicked the wood panelling, with reports that it was also set on fire.

Following the attacks, which happened between August 18 and 19, the district council is asking residents to stay vigilant and report vandalism to the police at the time it is happening.

A litter bin and lifebuoy near to toilets in Evesham’s Abbey Park were severely fire damaged, over the same weekend. Nearby railings and retaining timbers will need to be repainted or replaced.

Meanwhile, benches and slabs in the Pershore Memorial Garden were covered in acrylic neon paint and litter was found strewn across the floor.

The council has warned that CCTV is not necessarily a complete solution, as wrong doers know how to hide their faces and so resist being identified.

Lynn Stevens, senior parks and greenspace officer at the district council, said: “It is extremely disappointing to see our lovely town parks have been the target of such extensive and consistent vandalism.

“Every time this happens it costs the public money – in this case thousands of pounds, which could be better spent on investing in the parks. We are so proud of our open spaces, parks and play areas and all we want is people to respect these public areas.”

Anyone with any information should call the police on 101.