Residents in a pair of Aberdeen suburbs have raised fears about the safety of their children after smashed glass was discovered littered across play parks.
Worried Cove locals have contacted their local councillors to report the problem, while a dog in Bucksburn suffered cuts to its paws after walking across shards.
Councillor Alex Nicoll, who represents Cove, said the problem had become “all too common” in recent weeks and left residents with “real worry about the potential for a child to get hurt”.
Mr Nicoll added: “The reality is that breaking glass and leaving it on or around a playpark is absolutely mindless, if not callous, and could cause serious injury.
“I’ve been in contact with the local police who have advised that they will increase their presence in the area accordingly, and I’d ask that all residents stay vigilant and make sure they report any concerns.”
The problem has been a particular issue at Loirston Park, on Earns Heugh Road.
Meanwhile, locals in Bucksburn have raised concerns on the same issue after glass was found on and around play equipment, including being scattered down a slide.
Resident Douglas Shearer was walking his dog Buster in the area when the young terrier cut its paws recently.
Mr Shearer said: “Thankfully, Buster only had minor cuts, but it’s one of those things that shocks you in the moment.
“I heard from the community group in Bucksburn that happens quite often, which is disappointing to hear.
“Some people in the community have made the council aware about it a few times and we take the route sometimes on our way home.
“When it happened I thought ‘what if there was a child running through here and they didn’t see the glass?’
“It could have been a disaster. I imagine it’s reckless youths who are to blame.”
Lord Provost Barney Crockett last night said he was “horrified” at the notion that playgrounds were being “deliberately” targeted by thugs.
He said: “I’m horrified to hear that this is being deliberately done.
“It’s an unthinkable thing to do, and we will be looking to do everything we can to find out who the perpetrator is.
“I will visit this park and have a look myself, but I know there are a lot of neighbours to this playpark.
“I know they will do their best to keep a look out and stay vigilant.
“This is something that needs to be stamped out so it doesn’t happen again.”