A NEW skatepark that has only been open for a matter of weeks has been covered in offensive graffiti by vandals.

Young thugs targeted the £60,000 facility in Hartletts Park, Hook, on the evening of July 17, daubing the ramps with offensive messages and pictures.

Councillor Antony Hunter, a member of Hook Parish Council, said: "It is sad that a small group of teenagers decided to cause criminal damage to a brand-new facility, which is so well enjoyed by so many in the same age group.

"We are working closely with the the police in their efforts to track down those responsible for this wanton act."

He added the parish council's cleaning team had to clear the site of rubbish left by travellers before tackling the graffiti.

The group parked about 17 caravans on the football pitches in Hartletts Park on July 14 but, following a court order obtained by the parish council, they left the next day.

Cllr Hunter said the parish council's cleaning team had to remove waste from the site, including human excrement, before having to deal with the graffiti.

Tony Pill, a world-famous BMX rider from London Road, Hook, officially opened the skatepark in June.

The facility, which took five weeks to build, was funded by £49,000 from developer Taylor Wimpey and £11,000 from the Big Lottery Fund.

Local beat officer Pc Stacey Beale said: "We are still investigating the incident and we would be grateful for any information anyone can provide."

Anyone with information can contact Pc Beale, at Hook police station, on 0845 045 4545.