VANDALS have caused thousands of pounds worth of damage to public toilets in the Vale.

Since December 2010, four public conveniences have been vandalised in the county and matters are now being investigated by the police.

Facilities at Porthkerry Country Park; Harbour Road, Barry Island; Cowbridge Town Hall; Poundfield Shopping Centre, Llantwit Major and most recently the car park facilities at Cliff Parade, Penarth, have been affected, with thousands of pounds worth of damage caused at some facilities and hundreds at others.

Operational manager for waste management and cleansing, Clifford Parish, said: “We are appalled that these mindless actions have caused such damage, expense and inconvenience to our residents as tax payers.

"While repair work was carried out facilities had to temporarily close.

“If this selfish defacement persists, I fear it is only a matter of time before some public facilities will have to close.

"While this would be a last resort, our residents and visitors have to realise that this is a distinct possibility," he added.

"We would urge the public to be vigilant and report any crimes taking place to the police. A description, name or a registration number could lead to a successful prosecution.”