Ongar Town Council is set to pay hundreds to repair two play areas that were vandalised last weekend.

Councillors say they were "appalled" to discover a play house in the Cerizay play area behind Chipping Ongar Library, in High Street, Ongar and the balance beam at Shelley Park  in St Peters Avenue, had both been badly damaged.

Town clerk Aimi Middlehurst said: “It seems that a few people are intent on ruining facilities provided for the enjoyment of others.

“Play equipment has been damaged which is clearly a danger to children’s safety.

"This also has a detrimental effect on council finances as funds are required to repair the damage and therefore cannot be used for new projects.

“Essex Police have been informed and I hope that CCTV images will be useful in ensuring that those responsible will be apprehended.”

Councillors are now appealing to local people to help prevent more damage.

Anyone who sees any suspicious behaviour is asked to report it to Essex Police on 101 or to the town council on 01277 365348.