CONTINUOUS vandalism of the public toilets in South Zeal's Recreation Ground could see the amenity closed if it carries on.

The toilets, recently refurbished at a cost of around £1,000, have once again been vandalised. The toilet block has four toilets, and three of the four toilet seats have been ripped from their fittings.

Repair costs come out of the parish precept, and detract from funds available to South Tawton Parish Council for other community projects and schemes. The recent refurbishment cost around one twelfth of the annual precept.

Parish clerk Peter Brotherton said: 'We sincerely hope that we do not have to close the toilets. The recreation ground is the most important community asset, and the toilets are integral to that. We will do our best to keep the toilets open, and any reports of who may be causing the vandalism would be greatly appreciated.

'The vandalism is sporadic, where six months to a year may pass with no incidents. But then you may have two incidents in the space of three weeks, much like we have had recently. This is not the only act of vandalism in the area either, with incidences of graffiti on the pavilion and people climbing on the pavilion roof.

'We have a part solution now we have found someone who will lock the toilets each evening before it gets dark, and then open them again in the morning. However, that does not stop vandals attempting to break the toilet windows or damage the outside of the toilets.'

The council is appealing to anyone who sees vandalism to report it, either through a member of the council or via the council website at http://www.southtawtonparishcouncil.org.uk">www.southtawtonparishcouncil.org.uk