A spate of vandalism at playparks across Perth and Kinross has left children exposed to danger and council taxpayers footing a bill running into thousands of pounds.
In one case senseless damage led to a child being injured.
The relatively new area at the North Inch has suffered fire damage, while the Perth Leisure Centre park was also hit.
Perth and Kinross Council is now appealing to the public to help protect the district’s 150 play areas by being vigilant and reporting any suspicious activity.
A particularly costly piece of vandalism at Perth’s North Inch play area involved a swing which was set on fire.
“This is the second time that this piece of play equipment has been significantly damaged,” said a council spokesman.
“The damage not only takes the equipment out of use until it is repaired, the repairs themselves are usually expensive, this particular vandalism being estimated to cost the public purse £3,660.
“This money should be used to improve or replace old or worn out equipment elsewhere meaning other children will now lose out.
“The nature of this crime and the fact it takes place overnight has led to the conclusion that the damage is being carried out by older individuals.
“Thanks to the thoughtless actions of a few, the council has also recently had to repair two spring mobiles which were vandalised.”
The spokesman said: “More worryingly (the council) has been made aware of a child who was injured because the bolts had been removed from the seat backs of a piece of equipment they were playing on which rocks four ways.
“The council is also seeking information from residents on a recent spate of vandalism to equipment provided in the play area at Perth Leisure Pool resulting in significant damage to a number of items including climbing units, sand tables and megaphones.
“Estimates on the cost of repairing or, where needed, replacing these items are currently undertaken and are expected to be quite considerable.”
The vandalism angered mother Wendy Macfarlane from Craigie, whose children regularly use the North Inch and the leisure pool park.
“It is such a moronic thing to do, what is the point?” she said.
“Not only does it make a terrible impression for visitors to Perth, it is difficult to explain to the kids why people would deliberately damage play equipment.”
Douglas Pover, convener of Perth and Kinross Council’s Community Safety Committee, urged the public to play their part in catching those responsible.
He said: “I am saddened to hear that the inconsiderate actions of a minority have ruined the enjoyment of one of our play areas for its users.
“I would urge residents who notice any damage or vandalism to equipment to either report it to Police Scotland or alternatively report it on the council’s website www.pkc.gov.uk or telephone the council’s customer service centre on 01738 476476 with the location of the play area, details of the damaged or vandalised play equipment and when you noticed the damage had happened.”
Anyone with information on graffiti which has appeared on the flood wall on Perth’s Tay Street is also urged to contact the police or the council.