Residents in Malpas are being warned to be careful if they let their children play in the Recreation Ground’s sandpit after broken glass was found there on Saturday.

Eagle-eyed residents took to Facebook to warn people of the broken glass, with one user, Neil Young, saying: “Smashed glass in the kids sandpit. This is getting ridiculous, these kids need dealing with or CCTV needs putting up.

“Will pick up what I can see but all parents please be aware with your little ones. They have buried shards in the sand on purpose.”

Another resident, Beth Simpson, added: “I agree this behaviour is beyond a joke.

“Our little girl’s teddy was ripped to shreds recently by the teenagers, another little girl suffered the same thing plus on a separate occasion her, and another little boy’s school shoes were taken while they were playing.

“There is constant rubbish and discarded cigarette papers every time the kids have been there.

“I have spoken to the police several times now and they urge people not to be timid about reporting anything suspicious as they are taking it all very seriously.”

The problem has been reported to the police and to Malpas parish councillors.

The news is set to accelerate a special meeting with police, among a number of issues around crime in the village.

Call 101 if you have anything to report.