Vandals have smashed up a children’s play area in Pewsey.

Police have been informed, after the facilities at the Broomcroft park area were destroyed.

Villagers fear there is a trend happening in Pewsey and are demanding more bobbies on the beat.

Pewsey Parish Council posted photos of the latest damage, calling out to the local community to find out who is responsible for what it calls a "mindless act of criminal damage."

“Not sure if it’s a small group or individuals but seems that all the events feel linked," Justin Cook said.

"Throwing stones at cars, vandalism of children’s gifts and now the playground.

“Am I right in thinking that there is no local police presence in Pewsey now?

"Just worried that the next slew of events could include people, children getting hurt.

“... If only there was still a Bobby beat on the Pewsey roads keeping dialogue and intelligence going.”

Villagers have come forward offering to repair or replace the table in the children’s play area.

But the council has refused the offers, saying equipment must meet British Safety standards.

“Such a shame,” posted Judi Little. “My grandkids and hundreds of others will be very sad. I hope the culprits are caught and punished. Shame on them.”

Sandi Drewitt posted: “Such a disgrace. Very sad to see this. I hope somebody knows who is responsible.”

The vandalism has also seen more calls for better youth facilities in the Pewsey area.

Philip Arthur, who used to be the Deputy Warden of Grosvenor House in Salisbury, said: “The damage was premeditated, but the underlying problem is that the young and misguided need something to do other than vandalise public property.

“During my first year as a teacher we had a youth club where we saw over 100 attendees during the week and there were activities for them on a Tuesday and Thursday night from 6pmt to 10.30pm.

“These lads and lasses in Pewsey need a similar environment for them to gather and be themselves.

“I’d be willing to provide my services to help out with any initiative that would curtail such wanton destruction of park facilities and provide an environment where they could redirect their energy into something more constructive and positive.”

Michele Jenner said: “The tiny minority who indulge in damage and destruction could continue the same behaviour in a skate park, sadly.

“Not having enough to do is absolutely no excuse for vandalism,” she added.

The damaged equipment has been removed by the Parish Council which says it hopes to repair.

Last year, vandals wrecked floats stored for the Pewsey Carnival, spray painting and destroying awnings and equipment.