Fears for Manchester playground after dog bite vandalism found

Volunteer Stuart Fear said residents worried the damage could lead to park's closure

Residents fear a popular Manchester playground could be lost amid reports it is being used to train dogs at night - with swings and other equipment apparently damaged by biting.

The Friends of Cringle Park said "huge chunks" have been ripped out of equipment at the park in Levenshulme.

Patrols in the area have been stepped up by Greater Manchester Police after various complaints.

"It's pretty disgusting", said park volunteer Stuart Fear.

He said the damage had been so bad that Manchester City Council has had to replace the swing seats about six times since December.

"They can only do it so many times," Mr Fear said.

Chunks have been ripped from swing seats in the council-run Cringle Park

Crucially, the authority does not have the funds to keep replacing equipment, casting doubt over the park's future, he added.

Manchester City Council has been contacted for comment.

"There is some suggestion that this damage might be caused by somebody training or exercising a dog there in the evenings", a Greater Manchester Police spokesman said.

"Eventually the money will run out for repairs and the equipment in the park will be removed, which would be a big loss for the community."

The damage has been reported over several months

Laura, who lives nearby, told BBC Radio Manchester she brings her son to the park and found the situation "a bit concerning".

"It's not nice for a parent to hear what's happening," she said.

Natalie Lobel, who runs a nearby coffee van business, said the playground was an "integral part of the community" and was used by a "lovely diverse section of people".

Mr Fear said the site was "being ruined by someone who has no regard for the facilities".