DOG excrement was smeared all over children s play equipment and drugs were also found in the Redbourn play area over the weekend Contractor John Pidgeon made the discovery when he visited the Flamsteadbury Lane site on Monday morning to clear rubbish. He

DOG excrement was smeared all over children's play equipment and drugs were also found in the Redbourn play area over the weekend

Contractor John Pidgeon made the discovery when he visited the Flamsteadbury Lane site on Monday morning to clear rubbish.

He found that a dog litter bin had been emptied and bags of excrement spread over the children's slides and other equipment.

He also found about 100 plastic resealable bags - often used by drug dealers - and one containing a quantity of cannabis.

Cllr Tony Swendell, who represents the village on St Albans District Council, said: "This is just the latest in a long line of ugly incidents involving damage done to play areas in the village.

"We know drugs and empty bottles of alcohol have been found on the play areas before so it does make you wonder whether some of this appalling behaviour is drug-fuelled.

"As fast as we repair panels in the fence designed to keep dogs out they are kicked out and need to be replaced. At one stage shards of glass were stuck in a kiddies slide designed to hurt the kids. We have some very sick people out there who need to be caught quickly."

He added that the wanton destruction cost the parish council a fortune and was extremely demoralising for everyone concerned.

It is thought the culprits were youths in their teens seen hanging around the village who were probably also behind a farmer's field being set alight recently.

A police spokesperson said a substance suspected to be cannabis had been found at the scene but no links could be made between that and the vandalism.

PC Christine Clayton from the Harpenden Safer Neighbourhood Team said: "This selfish and needless behaviour shows a complete lack of thought for the local children who enjoy the facilities in the play area.

"Residents of Redbourn should not have to tolerate incidents of this nature and we have begun an investigation to trace those responsible."

Anyone who saw the incident or knows anything about it, is asked to contact the Harpenden Safer Neighbourhood Team on 01727 796143.

Alternatively, call the non-emergency number 0845 33 00 222 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.