AN informal area for youngsters had to be cleaned up after it was attacked days before its opening.
The "pocket park'' in Co-operative Terrace, New Brancepeth, was created by teenagers from the New Brancepeth Youth Group with support from youth workers at Groundwork East Durham.
It features a palm tree sculpture and seat with fish designs by artist Graham Hopper.
It was opened on Tuesday by Durham City councillor David Bell.
Coun Bell said: "In the last few days a few of the younger ones have put salt and tomato sauce on the seat and we have had to do a bit of clean-up."
Coun Bell said the park had received funding from the city council and Single Regeneration Budget.
"The park is what they wanted. They designed the seat and tree. We are hoping that they will take ownership and responsibility for it.''
Groundwork's Durham City project officer, Jason Martin, said: "The completion of this project just goes to show what young people can do when they are given the opportunity.''
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