Vandals target children's play area picnic table in Westham

The council said it had removed it from Adur Park after after ‘attempts to set it on fire have left it in a poor condition’.

It said aerosol cans had been used to damage the table.

A council spokesperson added: “This vandalism has also spoiled the special surfacing beneath the bench which will now need repairing.

"The council understand that the removal of the picnic bench is disappointing but they will try to source a new replacement robust bench for the summer months.”

Sussex Police has been contacted for further information.