POLICE patrols are being stepped up at the new Peebles play park following reports of vandalism.

Officers say a large amount of graffiti was discovered on equipment at the Victoria Park facility just before Christmas.

The vandalism was reported to the Scottish Borders Police Community Action Team which has been asked to provide additional patrols in the area.

Mark Rowley, the leader of Scottish Borders Council, said: “As a council we have committed significant funds to deliver some fantastic play facilities across the region over a number of years, and to see them mistreated in such a way is appalling.

“These play parks should be a safe environment for our young people and it is absolutely unacceptable that a minority spoil it for their community.

“If anyone has any information that could help I’d urge them to some forward.”

Les Turnbull, Chair of the Peebles Community Council told us: “It is such a shame that this sort of vandalism is happening in the new playpark. This is a wonderful facility to suit many age groups and we do not want to see it vandalised.

“Someone must know who is doing this and they should report their concerns to the police. Unless the police are given the help that they need to catch the culprits it will be difficult to stop further damage occurring.”

The £300,000 destination play park was opened in May.

The state-of-the-art facility was part of a wider programme of investment across the council’s outdoor community spaces programme totalling £4.8million.

At the time of opening, Tweeddale East councillor Robin Tatler, executive member for community development and localities, said: “The new play park in Victoria Park is fantastic.

“It will ensure young people of all abilities and ages in the area have access to modern, quality and inclusive play equipment in order to get active in a fun environment.”

“The council is also currently working to deliver a skate park for Peebles which is planned to open in 2022.”

On the reports of recent vandalism, a Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 11.30am on December 22, police received a report of a vandalism in Victoria Park, Peebles. Enquiries are ongoing.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police on 101, quoting incident 1136 of December 22.