A VANDALISED park is set to be brought back to its former glory.

And residents say they will not be deterred from their efforts despite the persistent action of yobs.

Just a few days ago, fire crews were called to Barlow Park in Astley Bridge, when a car was set alight. Car thieves in a Mazda 323 tore up the children's playing fields before setting fire to the car on Sunday at 12.15am.

The car had been driven recklessly around the park, destroying the grassed area with tyre tracks.

Vandals have destroyed many parts of the park by riding cars over fields, setting cars and benches on fire and ripping out flowers.

Now, residents along with local councillors are trying to set up a group to look after the park which has a playground, a bowling green, playing fields and a sports ground. Edith Woods, who lives on Oldhams Terrace, said: "There are stolen cars being set on fire, grass being ripped up, the bowling green has been wrecked by vandals and they have set fire to the benches.

"The play facilities aren't good considering the number of children who live on this estate. It's a massive park and is totally wasted. It needs some money desperately spending on it.

"It used to be really pretty with flowers and lovely gardens but has been neglected. People would never believe you now if you said how nice it used to be."

Beryl Cross, who lives on Barlow Park Avenue, said: "People who walk their dogs don't clean up their mess and that leaves the park looking untidy."

Astley Bridge councillor Hilary Fairclough, wants to set up a Friends of Barlow Park group to ensure the park is maintained. The group will come up with ideas to get the park used more and to encourage residents to help clean the park up.

She said: "We have wanted to set up a group for some time and three people have currently signed up to join. The park has been neglected for several years and vandalism is a regular occurrence. It's such a shame because it has huge potential. We would love more people to offer their support."