TEENAGE vandals are destroying benches at a popular Worcester beauty spot.

Carole Roberts, aged 70, of Guildford Close, Ronkswood, who regularly takes her Rottweiler Poppy, Staffie Dylan and French Bulldog Alfie for walks in the wood, said she was "disgusted" after seeing all three benches had been damaged.

She said: "It is so sad because it is just vandalism isn’t it?

"Of the three benches in the wood - one has been completely damaged with only bits of wood left behind, one has been broken in half and burnt and they have started hacking pieces off the last one.There’s beer cans all over - it is a nightmare."

She believes the damage was caused by a group of four youths, aged between 12 and 15, who often smoke cannabis and light fires in the woodland as hang out near the benches.

She said: "They say there’s 'nothing to do' and that smoking cannabis keeps them 'chill'. They are not at school and how they get away with it I don’t know.”

City councillor Tracey Biggs, who represents Nunnery, said: “It just seems really sad if these benches are being damaged and I would asked people to report anything they see to the police. It is criminal damage.

"We are working as a council to improve the Newtown Green area to make that better.

"A few months ago the youth shelter on Newtown Green closed down - it is a real shame. It was set fire to and was removed as it was deemed a 'health and safety hazard'"

She added: "It is also raising awareness of the issue of activities for young people. Ronkswood Community Centre they have lots of activities for young people - if they feel bored."

PC Allan Figueiredo, of West Mercia Police, said: "We do have regular reports of youth related anti-social behaviour in the area.We are working closely with our partner agencies and our harm assessment unit to deal with those responsible.

“If there are any new instances of criminal damage being reported we will then investigate accordingly."

He added: "We urge the public to report these incidents to the police as and when they happen."

Call 101 to report criminal damage, or 999 in an emergency.