Out-of-control yobs have caused tens of thousands of pounds of damage in an orgy of violence on one of Bradford's railway stations.

And they have even smashed replacement windows as soon as they had gone in.

Regular users of Frizinghall station fear the busy facility could become a no-go area for local residents if the gangs who have systematically smashed up waiting rooms over the past few days remain unchecked.

British Transport Police are investigating the incidents and are pleading for anyone with information to come forward and shop the yobs.

Both of the shelters on Frizinghall's two platforms cost £22,000, and were put on the station just six months ago.

PC Mark Stokes, of the British Transport Police, said: "The problem is that as soon as they get replaced they get smashed.

"Even as it was being reported, it has been smashed up again.They are now being replaced with nine-millimetre polycarbonate, which won't shatter.

"But straight away they have tried to deface that as well.

"We have recommended that every glass panel is to be replaced with the polycarbonate, for the safety of the passengers.

"And I would also ask all passengers to be vigilant when it comes to incidents such as this."

John Kitching, Northern Rail station manager added: "In addition, our mobile security teams and the British Transport Police will patrol the station in a bid to prevent vandalism and antisocial behaviour.

"Northern Rail is committed to providing a safe and comfortable environment for both passengers and staff and we are obviously dismayed at the level of vandalism that has occurred at this station over the last few days."

Joanne Payne, 25, from Bolton Hall Road, Bolton Wood, was waiting for the train this morning, to go to work in Bradford city centre, with her ten-month and 22-month children.

She said "It is every week this happens. It's always at least one or two but this is the worst it's been.

"It's just atrocious. I think it's the kids who do it, because they are bored with nothing to do."

Another rail user Anna Siwak, of Frizinghall Road and who works for the planning department of Bradford Council, said: "This must be the fourth or fifth time I've seen it.

"I saw yesterday, all the windows on the rear side of the shelter were exchanged for new ones, and then today I come and see it like this.

"It's terrible - it's waste of money and a waste of effort.

"It is obvious what people are going to think when they see it - I think some could be terrified of this area."

Councillor Rizwan Malik (Lab, Heaton), condemned the actions and said: "It is disgraceful - we shouldn't have to put up in today's society with that kind of behaviour on public property. It certainly will be something I will look into.

"I definitely think deterrents, such as CCTV or more officers regularly patrolling the area would put a stop to it."

A British Transport Police spokesman said: "Patrols will be increased in the area and officers will speak to local residents, passengers and rail staff."

If anyone has any information on the attacks, contact British Transport Police on 0800 405040.

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