Kevin Maddison and Mark Hawkins with some of the damage caused by vandals. Ref. 31010-1VANDALS could force a Swindon angling club to close.

Enthusiasts who manage the lake at Mouldon Hill Country Park have forked out £20,000 in repairs and they say members are leaving in droves because of the problems.

A mob of about 15 youths aged between 10 and 16 have been causing havoc at the park, in Taw Hill.

Fishing platforms and noticeboards have been smashed, trees damaged and, in hot weather, youths swim in the lake.

The youngsters also light barbecues and leave the area strewn with litter and empty beer cans.

Kevin Maddison, of Mouldon Hill Angling Club, said: "Two years ago we had 100 members, but now we only have 30. We want to have a club where families can enjoy fishing.

"But, now a lot of people, especially the elderly, are too frightened to come here.

"These kids are extremely abusive. If you ask them to get out of the lake, they just swear at you."

Breakdown recovery driver Mr Maddison, 35, of Purton, started the club four years ago with fellow angler Mark Hawkins.

They lease the lake, which is stocked with tench, bream, perch, roach and chub, from Swindon Council.

Mr Maddison said: "The only money coming into the club is from day tickets and membership.

"We are very low on finance, and if it were not for charitable donations, we would be paying for the lease out of own pockets."

The vandalism has been reported to the police.