Criticism after swing damage at Delamont

Criticism after swing damage at Delamont

17 July 2013

LOCAL politicians have criticised vandals who damaged a swing at Delamont Country Park which is used regularly by disabled children.

Park officials have revealed the saucer swing has been damaged on several occasions, with the latest incident coming last week. It’s believed an angle grinder was used to cut metal chains which attach the swing to an overhead pole at the popular play area.

Rowallane councillors Billy Walker and Terry Andrews say they are “disgusted” at what happened and hope the people responsible will be caught.

Councillor Walker said while some believe the chains were cut as a deliberate act of vandalism, others are suggesting whoever was responsible for the incident may have been attempting to steal the swing.

“The people who did this will be roundly condemned. The fact something like this has happened at the height of the busy summer season for Delamont will anger a great many people,” he declared.

“Parents are taking their children to Delamont in increasing numbers and now one of the park’s most popular swings is likely to be out of action for some time until repairs can be made.”

Councillor Walker said “words fail him” when he learns of such behaviour going on at what is a popular community asset.

He added: “I hope whoever was responsible for this incident will be caught. They need to be taken to court and taught the lesson that this type of behaviour simply won’t be tolerated.”

Councillor Andrews said it’s his understanding that the saucer swing will be out of action for up to three weeks to allow the necessary repair work to be completed.

“A lot of disabled children use this particular swing and to deny them the opportunity of using this piece of equipment is galling,” he declared.

“Anyone who knows anything about this despicable incident must contact police immediately. This kind of behaviour cannot and will not be tolerated.”

Councillor Andrews said with record temperatures attracting more people to Delamont, it will be annoying for many that its play equipment has been targeted by individuals who should know better.