Swings at a children's playground are out of action after they were torn from their frames.

The chains holding up the swings at Newmans Lane playground in Loughton were cut yesterday and it is thought they were stolen as scrap metal.

Loughton Town Council, which looks after the playground, said the chains would cost £1,000 to repair.

The council has made the playground safe, but has asked anyone who sees anything who sees anyone unusual to call the council offices on 020 8508 4200.