RECURRING vandalism in Elmley Castle has reached new depths with the ransacking of a picnic area, the destruction of a fence and car windows being smashed, all on the same night.

These latest attacks, on the fence surrounding the children's play area and picnic site in Kersoe Road, has led parish council chairman Tony Hilton to consider whether the council should call for the closure of the play area.

Just six weeks ago, the village primary school had its windows smashed, causing £400-worth of damage.

Vandals smashed the fence and turned picnic tables into matchwood last Sunday evening at the site, which is owned by Worcestershire County Council.

Mr Hilton, said: "They are mindless vandals.

"The playground is run by voluntary contributions from the parents of local children. "The children's playground has always been funded by the community and now the parish council may have to consider closing it down because of safety restrictions," he said.

He added: "There is a general problem with vandalism in the village."

Worcestershire County Council estimated the cost of the damage to the picnic area, which included the destruction of a salt bin, at £600.

Beat manager PC Roy Storr said: "We are aware of the issues and are liaising with the community.

"Someone will know who is responsible for doing this, as it is a case of local damage caused by local people and we're asking the community to identify them."