Vandals have smashed a new community garden planned for under-fives in Bracken Bank.

Fence posts were ripped out of their concrete bases after local teenagers had spent two weekends building them.

The Early Years Garden has been specially designed for children to plant and nurture their own flowers and vegetables. Members of the playgroup at the Sue Belcher Community Centre on Bracken Bank Avenue will be among users of the garden.

The site, with sunflower beds, insect pits and a butterfly corner, was prepared by youngsters working towards the Duke of Edinburgh Award. It had been funded from Keighley Area Panel's community chest fund, but extra cash may now have to be found.

Maureen Parkinson, chairman of Bracken Bank and District Community Association, says her members are dismayed about the vandalism. She adds: "We do appreciate the work the young people did. It's a shame because the garden is for the children of the estate."

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.