Saltaire is rightly referred to as a jewel in Bradford’s crown, and one of the many attractions the World Heritage Site can boast is Roberts Park.

The Council, to its credit, has recognised this and the park has recently undergone a £4.5 million refurbishment, which included replacing railings and renovating disused buildings.

The aim was to return it to its former glory, and the efforts have been appreciated by both locals and visitors alike.

But while most people have been heading there to enjoy the now-revamped surroundings, there are those who have targeted the park for more sinister reasons.

It has emerged that thieves have systematically stripped lead from the manager’s lodge.

Work is now under way to repair the roof and security is being stepped up, with improvements being made to the CCTV surveillance system.

All this, though, costs money, at a time when jobs and services are at risk due to cutbacks and every penny is needed.

The people responsible for these thefts – and those prepared to buy scrap metal from them when they must surely know or suspect it is stolen – care nothing for such considerations.

Just as they have no qualms about spoiling things for the many while lining their own pockets.

They are nothing but parasites.