A PARISH council says it will cost thousands of pounds to repair equipment at a park after it was vandalised by mindless yobs.

The climbing frame at the recreational ground playground in Coggeshall suffered damage after it was attacked.

The whole of one side of the wooden bridge’s rail has been broken off exposing a drop.

Braintree and Witham Times: The whole of one side of the wooden bridge’s rail has been broken off exposing a dropThe whole of one side of the wooden bridge’s rail has been broken off exposing a drop (Image: N/A)

The damage follows an ongoing issue with the seesaw seat, which is believed to have been chewed by dogs despite inside the rec park being a dog-free zone.

The rec playground was revamped following a huge town project.

Anna Appleton-Clayden was one of many parents who was involved.

She said: “It was a joint project with the parish council.

“It was carried out by the whole town over several years which was spent putting together ideas and fundraising. So many people got involved - people, businesses - it was great to see.

“The first half was done in December 2020 which made a big difference for children, especially in lockdown.

“We have had people from beyond Coggeshall visiting the park too.”

“It’s also a fully accessible playground so youngsters with mobility issues can use it.

The parish council says fixing the seesaw seats will cost in the region of £1,800, with the bridge costing a lot of money too.

Braintree and Witham Times: The park seesaw seat has also suffered damagesThe park seesaw seat has also suffered damages (Image: N/A)

Mrs Appleton-Clayden added: “It’s sad, disappointing, frustrating and I know the council shares those views.

“I know the bridge incident happened on Sunday (February 26).

“The seats were about a month ago and it looks like dogs.

“The bridge was deliberately pulled down and broken.

“However, the rest of the park is still open and I would still encourage its use, despite the damage."

Mrs Appleton-Clayden said repairs are now underway.

She said: “The parish council is fantastic, and the clerk is already on it.

“She aims to fix and make it safe as soon as she can. She really is fantastic and doesn’t get enough thanks, all parents say she is a fantastic asset.

“It will cost money, but we value what the playground provides.

"It can be the main form of physical activity for some children, so it is worth it.