Extra patrols and a warning to offenders as we tackle vandalism in a Craven park

Targeted patrols are taking place in a Craven village after a spate of vandalism in the park caused more than £1,000 of damage.

We are appealing for witnesses and information about four criminal damage incidents in Glusburn Park over the past few months.

The incidents have centred around the toilet facilities, where groups of youths have been congregating.

The damage includes:

• Four smashed windows, costing the community £560 to replace
• Flower displays being uprooted with soil strewn around the area
• Smashed toilets
• Significant damage to internal and external toilet block doors

We have reviewed and increased our presence in the area, with more patrols in the park to coincide with the lighter nights.

We are warning that anyone who has committed criminal damage will be dealt with robustly, which is likely to include criminal prosecution and being ordered to pay in full for the damage they have caused.

Beat manager PC Anne Jefferson, from Craven Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “It’s sad to see such mindless vandalism affecting a park that the whole community enjoys using. A very small minority are ruining it for the majority and that simply isn’t acceptable.

“We’re working closely with the community to gather information about these offences so we can identify those involved.

“We’ll be regularly patrolling the park and surrounding areas and we’ve also offered security advice, including some ideas to make the facilities less likely to be targeted.

“But we also need parents to play their part and ensure they know where their children are and what they’re doing.”

PC Jefferson urged anyone who has information and is yet to share it with the police to get in touch.

She added: “Anyone with any information about the damage, or who witnessed any of the incidents, can report it on our website or contact me at [email protected]

“You can also call us on 101, select option 2 and ask for PC Anne Jefferson, or share information with Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

“All information provided will be seen by me and my team and could help us prevent further damage to a valuable community space.”