A spectacular water garden which was the finishing touch to a three-year park refurbishment has been attacked by "small-minded vandals" just weeks after its official opening.

The Mughal garden in Bradford's Lister Park was described as the "uniquely fitting finish" by Lord Mayor, Councillor Stanley King, who also claimed that the park would be a "no litter, no vandal" zone.

But today he expressed his anger over the damage inflicted by the vandals who smashed 14 wall-lights in the garden.

"I am very disappointed that the decorative lighting in the paved square has been vandalised so soon after this beautiful garden opened," he said.

"We will be stepping up security and repair work is already under way.

"We should not let a few small-minded vandals spoil things for the many people who enjoy spending some of their leisure time in this garden."

To combat further vandalism a Bradford Council spokesman said that there would be an increased presence from mobile Park Rangers, the Park Warden post, which is currently vacant, will be filled, and CCTV will be installed.

The £600,000 water garden - which combines Hindu and Islam architectural styles - was opened by Coun King last month and is a main feature in the park which has been redeveloped with the help of a £3.2 million award from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Bruce Barnes, 53, is a regular park user and feels that there should be a greater security presence in the park.

"From a personal point of view, I think CCTV cameras would be environmentally ugly, they would take a lot away from the park," he said.

"As a park user I'm extremely concerned that there's been vandalism.

"I think it's an issue for everyone who uses the park, as well as the council, to act as eyes and ears for the park and if they do see this kind of vandalism to report it to the police or park rangers."

Anyone with information on park vandalism is urged to contact the park ranger service on (01274) 752696 or call the police.