Funding for youth projects might be in jeopardy after an outbreak of vandalism at a popular skatepark.

About £2,000 damage was caused when two stainless steel, metre-long railings on the sides of a four-foot-high platform were sawn off and a three-metre long rail was damaged in Victoria Park, Oakenshaw, Bradford.

Bradford Council built the skatepark more than five years ago and it is well-used by children and teenagers. The vandalism follows months of graffiti being daubed on trees, footpaths, signs and buildings in the park.

Members of Oakenshaw Residents' Association say they are being put off supporting schemes for young people. Tony Atkinson, who looks after Victoria Park for the association, said: "It's pointless vandalism. Stainless steel is worth a few quid but they didn't even take it.

"It will cost at least £2,000 to replace. It's disheartening; we're trying to do something for the community and children come along and destroy it. We'll definitely think twice about doing anything for youngsters."

Chairman David Rhodes said: "What's the point of providing things for youngsters when this happens? It's a waste and we'll definitely think again about providing things for them.

"There were lots of children going up and down the ramp yesterday and there's nothing to stop them falling off the side.

"The park has been graffiti-free until this year; now the letters LTB' have been scrawled everywhere. On certain weekends people come in from outside the area and have a go. It's a damned nuisance."

Jack Bentley, 11, of Drighlington, uses parks in Bradford to ride his bike and skateboard. He said: "We see graffiti in lots of skateparks but not usually people breaking things. I think it is ignorant and disrespectful."

Sergeant Philip Goss, of the Wyke Neighbourhood Police Team, said: "We are aware of the graffiti and shall evaluate the damage and make inquiries into that. We have recently increased our patrols in Victoria Park due to anti-social behaviour."

Councillor David Warburton (Lab, Wyke) said: "Its disgusting that people do things like this, especially after all the hard work put in by the residents' association.

"It seems to be more controlled and organised than vandalism."

A spokesman for Bradford Council said a team would assess the damage and carry out repairs where necessary.

e-mail: ben.barnett@bradford.newsquest.co.uk

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