Vandals target park (From Penarth Times)

Vandals target park

ONE of Penarth's most picturesque parks has been vandalised.

Benches at Alexandra Park were smashed up and thrown into the pond.

The site, which has long been the target of vandals, now needs a massive clean up.

Vale parks officer Hugh James said: "We have had problems before at the park but it has usually been trees pulled up or cut.

"This is the first time that the benches have been smashed to pieces.

"The problems started because the park is not locked at night anymore. This was a cost cutting exercise which means that the park patrol is no longer in operation in that area."

Regular park user Robert Donaldson of Fairfield Road said: "I walk through here three or four times a week to get to the beach.

"It is disgraceful that this has been done and it is such a pointless act of vandalism."

Vale and Penarth Councillor Anthony Ernest, a supporter for the park to be refurbished, said: "This is mindless vandalism which should not go on.

He added: "The time, cost and effort which is needed to clear this mess up is simply unfair."

Leading Penarth Society member Graham Robertson said: "The £1 million Heritage Lottery Grant which needs ten percent match funding would mean a park manager could be employed.

"He would be able to install lighting and secure the park at night.

"This is something that the Penarth Society has taken to heart and will do everything possible to assist."