Bracknell

Bracknell Night patrols are taking place to catch vandals who have damaged community facilities in to Lily Hill Park.

In recent weeks, the summer house has had its roof damaged and been covered in graffiti, while the amphitheatre has been damaged by frequent fires and structures being torn down.

Visiting school and youth groups frequently used both areas as open air classrooms, and the amphitheatre was built by conservation volunteers. Park officers are repairing the damage was quickly as possible so residents can continue to enjoy the park's facilities.

Bracknell Council is working closely with Thames Valley Police to catch and bring the vandals to justice.

Earlier this year, the second phase of the park's £2million lottery-funded refurbishment was unveiled, with praise given to the volunteers who gave up their time over the 10-year project to reflect Victorian and 1930s landscape designs and planting.

Richard Scrivener, Lily Hill Park project officer, said: "We have started random night time patrols to enforce the law.

"We fully intend to help the police make arrests and inform parents of any illegal activity caused by their children in the park. We will not be beaten by this mindlessness."

Cllr Iain McCracken, Ward member for Bullbrook, said: "Vandalism of any kind should not and will not be tolerated. Officers of the Council and conservation volunteers have spent countless hours faithfully restoring our park to its former state and I know from the comments made to me, both from residents within my ward and from visitors to the park, the restoration is much admired and greatly enjoyed.

"Don't let the moronic few spoil our parks and countryside. If you see vandalism taking place in any public area, please call the police on 0845 8505505."

Bracknell Forest Borough Council