COMMUNITY leaders in Selkirk say they are at the "end of their tether" after equipment was damaged at a local playpark.

Over the weekend of August 28-29, bolts were removed from two of the basket swings at the Pringle Park.

And members of the Selkirk Playpark Project say a bench was recently pulled from the ground, gravel has been tipped over the slide and dog waste bins have been damaged.

READ MORE: Olympic medal winner Sarah Robertson returns to her roots in the Borders

Sheila Cochrane, who is the group's treasurer, said: "It's getting to a ridiculous stage now. It's a real shame.

"It's a great project for the town, but it's getting quite serious and its putting children's safety on the line."

This recent damage was reported to Police Scotland, however, a spokesperson told the Border Telegraph this week that "no criminality was established".

READ MORE: Council submits plans to demolish ‘deteriorating’ former pub in Borders town

Ms Cochrane says Scottish Borders Council's maintenance team helped fix the recent damage.

But she is worried that the problems will continue in the future.

She added: "This [damage] seems more malicious this time.

"To me, to go to the trouble to undo bolts and hinges – this equipment is built to last, you can't just pull it off – I'm worried it will continue."

READ MORE: Man organised illegal party in Borders during height of coronavirus restrictions

As well has the four committee members, the Selkirk Playpark Project is made up of a team of 12 volunteers who help maintain the facility.

"Our wonderful volunteers do park duty," said Ms Cochrane.