Raunds Town Council has been forced to remove pieces of equipment from the skatepark at the Amos Lawrence Park, in Stanwick Road, Raunds, because of repeated attacks by vandals.

The vandalism has left the equipment unsafe to use and the council has said it has had no choice but to remove the pieces.

The final piece was taken away this week after vandals ripped its sides and tore down its safety barrier.

A spokesman for Raunds Town Council said: "Sadly, the last piece of equipment has had to be removed from the skatepark because it has been vandalised.

"We're disappointed by the actions of a few people who are spoiling things for the many who want to use the skatepark properly.

"The council is still in discussions with interested parties as to finding a possible way forward.

"We have not given up hope of providing this facility."

Raunds Youth Action Group has been working with young people in the town to promote the skatepark.

Group secretary Maureen Carroll said: "I feel really sorry for the kids who use it properly.

"It gives them somewhere they can exercise and helps them to learn skills.

"Without it they could end up on the steps of the town hall or in the market square.

"We'll continue to work with the kids and the town council to see if we can find a way forward."

One of the young skateboarders who has been campaigning for the skatepark to be saved is Matt Dyne, 15, of Raunds.

He said: "I'm disappointed and a bit shocked that there are people who want to destroy it.

"I've been to several council meetings about the skatepark and we've been looking into moving the skatepark so it remains in the park but is nearer the road, so at the moment I'm hopeful it will be put back."