VANDALS have destroyed a playgroup gardening project.

Children and parents from Brooklyn Playgroup, in Langton Road, Norton, in Ryedale arrived last week to find smashed glass, plants ripped out and planters stolen.

The playgroup's 35 youngsters, aged between two and five, had been caring for the plants to learn about gardening.

Mary Rohan, whose son Charlie attends the playgroup, said: "They were absolutely devastated.

"A lot of them know which plant they planted. They did get quite upset about it.

"They grew seedlings and planted summer geraniums, pansies and sunflowers in tubs outside. It looked great, like a little garden centre."

It is thought the vandals had been drinking in the grounds of the playgroup when the damage took place.

A playgroup supervisor, who did not wish to be named, said: "Don't these yobs have families who have taught them respect to others, or younger brothers or sisters who attend pre-school?

"I pity them, as they don't know the difference between right and wrong."

Equipment for the gardening was provided by local companies. "We're a cash-strapped group and local firms came up trumps, then someone came and wrecked it," said Mrs Rohan.

The vandalism took place last weekend. Anyone with information is asked to call Ryedale police on (01723) 509662.