A WOODEN sculpture in a children’s play area in Yate has been targeted by arsonists.

Vandals set fire to an octopus-shaped sculpture in Millside Playzone, in Brimsham Park, severely damaging the carving.

Yate Town Council estates officer Tony Moore, who is responsible for the maintenance of the town’s parks, said the incident a fortnight ago was not an isolated one.

“From time to time there have been fires at Millside play area, usually small, and within a circle of stones at the top of the site,” he said.

“The most recent fire has been around the octopus sculpture.

“I am ordering some fire retardant solution to paint onto the wood to slow down or stop the timber being burnt and we are investigating repair of the damaged section.”

The council has asked local police community support officers to patrol the play area frequently during the summer months.