VANDALS have caused £2,000 damage to the fountain in Devizes Market Place.

It is thought large chunks of stonework were removed overnight on February 26.

Devizes Town Council owns the fountain, which dates back to 1879, and the council's commercial manager, Simon Fisher, condemned those responsible. "It's very frustrating. It serves no real purpose," he said.

"Everybody who has pride in the town will be disappointed."

The town council is about to go out to tender for scheduled work to the fountain. The council plans to have lighting installed to make the fountain look attractive at night.

Parts of the stonework were due to be repaired anyway, but it will now include this damage, which will add at least £2,000 to the cost.

Anyone with information is asked to call PC Noel Small of Devizes Police on (01380) 722141.