IT’S BAD enough that vandals have targeted a local cricket cub causing thousands of pounds worth of damage over a number of years.

But the latest wanton destruction in Nunroyd Park simply beggars belief.

Not content with damaging fencing and a screen at Green Lane Cricket Club, hooligans have also turned their attention to a young oak which was planted in loving memory of a woman who died in 2008.

The sapling, which will have had so much meaning for the family who planted it, has been snapped and bent double.

Such a callous and and disrespectful action is truly shocking. The people who carried out the act of vandalism can hardly have been unaware of its significance. The tree was planted close to a memorial bench, complete with plaque, which gave details of the deceased woman and paid tribute to her.

It would have been hard for the perpetrators not to have realised the potential impact their actions would have - and now they should have the guts to apologise and to do whatever they can to make amends.

They could also take the time to think about consequences of the deliberate damage they inflict on the cricket club. The club is providing a valuable service to the local community, giving young people a place to go and a useful way of letting off steam.

It’s sad that an organisation which works hard to help the local community should have its job made harder by mindless yobs.