COMMUNITY leaders on the Bishopdown Farm estate in Salisbury have condemned a small group of teenagers whose repeated vandalism is spoiling the enjoyment of the majority.

Last week, a further outbreak forced the cancellation of the morning pre-school group, meaning 26 children had to be sent home.

Group chairman Miranda Marden said the lock on the pavilion door had been tampered with and the staff and children could not get into the pavilion.

She said: "Broken glass, litter and graffiti greet the pre-school staff most mornings.

"Recently the veranda was set on fire and now the lock has been damaged, denying 26 children the right to a morning of play, socialising and learning."

St Mark's Church curate the Rev Jean Boulton-Reynolds, who lives on the estate and has been involved in setting up a youth project, said: "There is a small group of young people who have been causing problems. The youth group project is going really well. It is a shame a few are spoiling it."

Sergeant Jenny Bailey-Hobbs from the police community beat team said estate residents and the police will not tolerate anti-social behaviour.

She said: "We are working closely with the council and youth services and we intend taking steps to remedy this problem, which will include high profile policing."