VANDALS have caused thousands of pounds worth of damage to equipment at a skate park.

The half-pipe at the site in Norton, near Malton, one of the biggest in the country, has been closed while repairs are assessed.

Town councillors were told that an inspection was due to be carried out to see if the equipment could be made safe.

However clerk Ros Tierney said a report from the installers had already indicated there was at least £8,000 worth of maintenance required on the equipment at the skatepark, with the majority of that being on the half-pipe.

Members were told the half-pipe had been fenced off and police were viewing CCTV images in a bid to identify the vandals.

PC Jane Jones said: “I am really concerned that the youths of today can cause this amount of damage to something they use and enjoy.

“The youths that have caused this damage have spoilt it for other users. The council has even put fencing round the half-pipe for the youths’ safety and the youths have even caused damage to that and knocked it all down.

“The CCTV at the park is being viewed and the offenders will be dealt with accordingly.”