A children's charity in Bangor has reported two separate incidents of vandalism to its outdoor play area and post box over the Halloween break. Damage to equipment at the Sure Start premises on Skipperstone Road was discovered by staff when they returned after the holiday closure.

The first incident involved significant damage to play equipment. A second incident left the post box damaged, with its key barrel pushed out. The charity has not indicated whether the incidents are linked.

Denise Rogers, project co-ordinator for Bangor Sure Start, said the team was shocked by the damage. She noted that in over 13 years of operation, the organisation had never experienced anything similar. The attacks will require spending that had not been planned for, she said.

Rogers criticised those responsible, saying the vandalism diverts money that would otherwise be used for children's services. She emphasised that outdoor play is essential to early childhood development and that the compromised environment affects the children in the charity's care.

Bangor Sure Start is one of 38 teams working in the 25 most deprived areas of Northern Ireland. It provides services for children up to four years old, aiming to give them the best start in life. The charity operates from three premises in Bangor, including Skipperstone Road, Hamilton Road, and St Columba's Church in Kilcooley.

Rogers expressed gratitude for support from the local community, including messages and offers of financial assistance. She said the play area is expected to be repaired and reopened within weeks. In the meantime, children can use nearby parkland behind the building.

Police have been asked to investigate. Rogers appealed for anyone with information to come forward.