A CHILDREN'S play area has been trashed.
The damage has come to light after travellers set up camp nearby.
Caravans began arriving at the park off New Hey Road, in Salendine Nook, on Thursday afternoon.
At some point during the weekend the swings were removed from the frame and the slide ripped off and left lying on the ground.
The playground at Salendine Nook was recently improved and was one of the best in Huddersfield. It is now unfit for children to play there.
Glass is smashed around the playground and the railings, designed to keep dogs out, are being used as a makeshift washing line.
David Haigh, 57, of New Hey Road, said although the travellers had not trespassed on his land, having them nearby put people on edge.
He said: "You do worry but I have to be fair and say that we have not had any particular trouble. The problem is they leave such a mess.
"What has been done to the kiddies' play park is a disgrace. It has not been done up long and it has been ruined for the local kids who would come down and play there.
"Sometimes the local teenagers gather there and leave litter and things. But it has never been vandalised like this. Kids don't carry around spanners or tools which is what you would need to have taken the swings and slide down like that."
When the Examiner approached the travellers they refused to comment but did promise that any rubbish would be put in bin bags and left at the side of the field for the council to collect.
John Fletcher, head of culture and leisure at Kirklees Council, said that even though the repairs would cost the taxpayer it was vital the work was done as soon as possible.
"Unfortunately these things do happen from time to time and we just have to get on with it and make the play areas as good as they were."
A spokesman for the council confirmed they were seeking an eviction order against the travellers.
