North Lodge Park bandstand in Darlington vandalised

Police said the damage is believed to have been caused between August 29 and 31 and the children's play area in the park has also been vandalised.

Anti-social behaviour patrols have been stepped up in the area to try to prevent any further issues after an assault took place in the park around the same date.

A spokesman for Darlington Borough Council said: "Repairs to the bandstand and play area will be carried out as soon as possible.

"The police and our anti social behaviour team are monitoring the area and we'd urge anyone who witnesses offences being committed in the park to call police."

A man suffered a broken leg after being attacked in the park by three people on August 30, but it is not known if the incidents are linked.

The historic bandstand was restored to its former glory in 2010 after a £216,000 revamp.

This included a Heritage Lottery Fund grant of £103,000 and £40,000 from Darlington council.

Before the restoration is was boarded up and out of use for many years, and was frequently targeted by vandals.

The revamp included repairs to the roof and cast ironwork and was fully restored based on historic documents.

The bandstand was originally produced by the MacDowell Steven Company at their Milton Ironworks in Glasgow.

Anyone who has any information about the vandalism, or knows who is responsible, is asked to call Darlington Police on 101 quoting reference number CRI00147607.