A REFURBISHED park has been targeted by “mindless vandals” for the third time since reopening.

Fire crews were called to Howard Park and Gardens in Letchworth GC at about 7.55pm on Thursday after a toilet block was set alight.

The blaze caused substantial damage to the disabled toilet and mother and baby changing area and the block will now remain closed to the public while police carry out an investigation.

Tiles on the roof of the toilets and the kiosk were damaged two weeks after the completion of a �2.7m renovation in March, and the park was also subject to a graffiti attack in May.

“This is the third mindless attack by vandals on Howard Park and Gardens since its official opening in the summer of this year,” said Vaughan Watson, North Herts District Council’s head of leisure and environmental services.

“Sadly, this time the main victims are disabled people and mothers and toddlers who relax and play in the park. These appalling criminal attacks by a minority of people ruin the enjoyment of the park for the whole community.”

Letchworth Safer Neighbourhood Sergeant Simon Turner added: “This vandalism is both mindless and pointless and ruins facilities that are provided for public use. This is a criminal offence and we are investigating it robustly and increasing patrols in the area to bring the offenders to justice.

“We are also appealing for anyone who has any information about this crime to contact police by calling the non-emergency number 101. You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously by ringing 0800 555 111. All information will be treated in the strictest confidence.”