“Mindless vandals” have risked injuring children by removing bolts from playground equipment in Hampton.

Council inspectors found 15 safety bolts missing from a junior climbing frame and basket swing at Nursery Green playground, The Avenue, last week.

The equipment has been cordoned off and the swing has been removed.

Richmond and Twickenham Times:

The Council is appealing to people to report any information to the Police via 101.

Cabinet member for environment Pamela Fleming said she was outraged by the vandals’ actions.

She said: “The culprit’s behaviour has put at risk the safety of many children who regularly use this much-loved community facility.

Richmond and Twickenham Times:

“We have invested a lot of money of the past few years in our parks and open spaces. We know that they are used my thousands of local families. We regularly inspect our equipment to make sure that it is safe and I am alarmed that someone thinks that removing bolts is fun.

“It isn’t fun. It is dangerous. We will work to repair the equipment and reinstate as soon as possible. But, in the meantime, if anyone knows any information about this crime – I urge them to come forward and report to the police.”

Richmond and Twickenham Times:

Fears playground equipment in Hampton Village Green was being used to train dogs to fights were sparked in October 2014 when teeth marks appeared in a mini-spin.

READ MORE: Are dogs being trained to fight in Hampton playground?