THIS is how vandals left a bandstand at Victoria Park after a pile of rubbish was torched on it.

The yobs struck on Sunday evening - the opening weekend of half term - and even scrawled names on surrounding pavements.

Police confirmed that at about 7.40pm on Sunday (February 12) officers were called to the park where a member of the public had discovered the small pile of rubbish which had been set alight on the bandstand.

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service also attended and put out the flames.

Officers attended and patrols have been stepped up to give the area extra attention.

Police are keen to trace a group of youths seen in the area at the time.

The bandstand is a recent addition at the park which was refurbished by a £4m restoration project a few years ago.

St Helens Community Sergeant Neil Birkett said: "Vandalism such as this is not a victimless crime.

"This is a valued and much loved feature of a historic park, the enjoyment of which has been spoiled by a mindless act.

"We are very keen to speak to anyone who may have information that can help us with our enquiries and would urge anyone who saw any suspicious behaviour in the park on Sunday evening to contact us.

"We would also appeal to any parents whose child was out late on Sunday and returned home with clothes smelling of smoke to get in touch.

"Where we witness anti-social behaviour or criminal damage we will take action."

Anyone with any information on this incident is asked to contact Merseyside Police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.