Youths in park fire spree

A WRECKED picnic table

MINDLESS young vandals caused £3,000 worth of damage to Coalshaw Green Park after they were asked to leave because they were drinking.

Firefighters were called to the Chadderton beauty spot at around 10.30pm on Wednesday after the gang of 10 youths returned with petrol and set fire to a picnic table.

They came back a third time, setting fire to another picnic table, ripped up newly planted trees and damaged a seat and a litter bin.

The park was refurbished in 1998 and has Green Flag Status in recognition of its high standards.

Oldham’s parks boss Steve Smith blamed the mindless few and said they were looking at increasing security.

He added: “It’s a huge disappointment. We are clearing up the debris and we will replace the damaged items. We won’t give in.”

Oldham Council’s Cabinet member for the environment and infrastructure, Councillor Mark Alcock, said: “I am appalled. It will cost more than £3,000 to put right.

“This has come at the worst possible time as preparations were well in hand to get the park up to the required standard for the next round of Green Flag judging.”

Anyone who has any information on the incidents should contact Oldham police on 0161-872 5050 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.