VANDALS have caused damage estimated at hundreds of pounds to the play area at Netherend, near Lydney.

Woolaston Playgroup members have been shocked by the latest incident which happened at the weekend. A fence was ripped out and rubbish and glass scattered over the whole area.

Play leader Mrs Carina Greenwood said it was now almost usual to have to clear up some mess but the latest damage was the most severe ever.

The play area was established thanks to a Lottery grant, she said.

"It is heartbreaking to find so much damage. It is obviously the work of youngsters who gather there at night. We only wish they would realise it is a community resource and really belongs to them," she said.