“Mindless” vandals who targeted a popular children’s play park, forcing it to close, have been slammed by the community.

The play area at Hensingham in Whitehaven was so badly damaged over the bank holiday weekend the council has had to shut it due to fears over safety.

Several areas of matting have been ripped up, causing damage beyond repair.

Councillor Jeanette Forster said: “It’s quite a shame. It’s going to cost a lot of money to replace.

“It’s a shame they are destroying it for themselves. They have been very foolish - they will be identified by the CCTV.

“We will get it sorted one way or another.”

Raymond Gill, who represents Hensingham on Copeland Borough Council, said: “It’s very disappointing bearing in mind a lot of effort has gone in there. Words fail me. They’re just hooligans.”

Graham Roberts, mayor of Whitehaven, said: “It’s mindless stupidity. It spoils the enjoyment of the youngsters and it looks bad for the adults. It’s hurting themselves because the authorities have to spend money to mend it.

“It’s a worthless action. They are just damaging society for themselves.

“It’s disappointing and disheartening when we are trying to improve the town. We are making improvements with what money we have and it spoils it for everybody.”

Several people have taken to social media to express their anger and disappointment.

Loren Redmond wrote: “Disgusting! My kids love playing at that park.”

Will Hatten posted: “Well done for spoiling it for the kids. Hope you’re proud of yourselves.”

Maureen Hunter posted: “Vandals! But who pays? Our community and the children and families who have lost a safe play area.”

Copeland Council said the play park would remain closed until the surfacing could be replaced - at a cost to the taxpayer.

Anyone with information about the incident should contact police on 101 referencing incident 208.