Anger at ‘moronic’ attack on sculptures
WOODEN animal sculptures along a nature trail in Balderstone Park have been vandalised.
The three carvings unveiled earlier this year form part of four benches and represent wildlife found in the park.
Sculptures of an owl, a bird of prey and a squirrel, which were paid for by cash raised by voluntary group the Friends of Balderstone Park, have had features hacked off and been daubed with paint.
Coun Danny Meredith described those responsible as ‘morons’.
He added: “This mindless vandalism is heartbreaking. The animals are a popular addition to the park and a favourite of children.
“I would like to get my hands on the morons who did this.”
“The sculptures were ‘quite expensive’ according to Meredith who also said that the vandalism committed was ‘stupid behaviour’.
Coun Richard Farnell added: “This stupid vandalism must be upsetting to the volunteers of the Friends of Balderstone Park. They work so hard to make our park so attractive and welcoming. They raised the cash for the animal sculptures.”
“We will not be deterred by the vandals. The friends’ group and councillors are planning even more improvements to the park very soon.”
Mark Widdup, director of neighbourhoods at Rochdale council, said: “I’m appalled that people would vandalise a children’s playground in this way.
“Our environment team worked very hard with the Friends of Balderstone Park to create these beautiful sculptures and this turn of events is incredibly disappointing.
“This incident has been reported to the police and we would urge anyone who knows anything to get in touch with them.
“We will also repair the sculptures soon, so they can be enjoyed once again by the many people who visit the park.”