CALLS have been made to tackle vandalism at a popular play area in Malmesbury after the latest incident in which a zip wire was damaged – with a dog and owner believed to be the culprits.

Malmesbury town clerk Richard Spencer-Williams has hit out after the zip wire was damaged at St Aldhelm’s Mead.

He said the popular play equipment, which is used by many of children, has been damaged repeatedly over the past few months by a thoughtless dog owner who seems to see it as a training toy for their pet.

This not only puts the equipment out of action, but costs the local taxpayer as a replacement seat is £100 each time.

Malmesbury Town Council, which is responsible for the play area, is reluctant to remove the zip wire but said that, should the vandalism continue, it may be forced to do just that.

Mr Spencer-Williams said: “This is a relatively new issue which has not occurred until recent months.

“Wear and tear or accidental damage are expected, but this is vandalism.

“This play equipment has been used inappropriately by someone encouraging their dog to use the seat as an exercise toy.

“I hope this replacement seat lasts much longer than the previous two.”

Malmesbury town PCSO Jordan Rose said that police officers are working with the town council in a bid to catch the vandalism culprit.

The town council is notifying police each time there is damage, in the hope of officers identifying the vandal.

PCSO Rose said: “We want local children to be able to enjoy the equipment safely, and we don’t want this to be ruined by the mindlessness of one or two individuals.”

“We would urge anyone who may have information to get in touch via 101.”