A SPECIAL swing in Haworth Central Park designed for youngsters with disabilities was torched by vandals.

Local people reacted angrily to the damage, with one volunteer calling for security cameras to be installed.

The vandalism happened late last week. Someone set fire to the swings, completely destroying one of the easy access seats and scorching the soft surfacing beneath it.

Worth Valley councillor Rebecca Poulsen said: “It’s really shocking. To destroy a swing that was donated for disabled children to use is appalling behaviour.

“And to set something alight when conditions are so dry makes it even more dangerous. Fire can get completely out of hand very quickly.”

Cllr Poulsen said someone must know who carried out the crime, adding that whoever did it may have returned from the park smelling of smoke or petrol.

Gill Hill, chairman of the Friends of Haworth Central Park group, said: “It’s time we had CCTV in the park, and I think we’re going to have to lobby for it.

“There’s too much vandalism happening, and those responsible shouldn’t be allowed to get away with it.”

A Bradford Council spokesman said: “The council will repair the damage following the vandalism in Haworth Park. We’d ask if anyone sees anything suspicious or has information about this incident to inform the police.”

The park has only recently retained its Green Flag award, which recognises it as being one of the best public green spaces in the country.