A CHILDREN'S play area has been closed after vandals snapped a ride on elephant.
Lawford Parish Council has been forced to shut Riverside Play Area in Colchester Road after the damage on Saturday.
Councillor Julie Langstone said: "Apparently on Saturday a youth of about 17 got on the little jumping up and down elephant and he broke it then ran off.
"Somebody kindly removed it so no-one could hurt themselves but the damage to the base is really severe and it's causing a really bad trip hazard.
"Until further notice the play area is closed.
"It's a shame, it's a popular play area, especially before and after school."
The play area, near Highfields Primary School, also has a ride-on bus, a roundabout, swings and climbing net.
Julie added: "We will get it sorted as soon as we can but the base that is left needs replacing.
"It will cost hundreds of pounds."
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