THIS is the trail of destruction left by a mob of vandals who went on a drink-fuelled rampage at a Southampton play area.

Residents watched in horror as the group of up to 30 youngsters slammed their bodies into the fencing and ripped up posts.

The damage, which is likely to cost hundreds of pounds to repair, was committed during an hour-long attack by the yobs, who also left cans of lager strewn across the play area at Imber Way in Sholing.

Residents have now declared the area a no-go zone at certain times because of the gang.

PC Kirsten Scorey, beat officer for Sholing, said: "From what people said to us when we were called down there, they just feel too intimidated to approach the area.

"They feel threatened by this gang, who appear to be becoming an increasing problem.

"It would seem that they just used their bodies to totally destroy the fencing around the play area. Posts were totally ripped up. We also found evidence of alcohol at the scene."

Council bosses are now working to repair the damage.

Mum-of-two Jane Harvey, 27, said: "It is a real shame when they do this sort of thing. It's for them at the end of the day. It is doing things like this that makes these sorts of play areas become out of bounds for the kids that want to use them."

James Johnson, 54, who passes the play area while walking his dog, said: "I wouldn't let my grandchildren use this place. I think it is disgusting what kids do to play equipment that is for younger children anyway.

"It all costs money to replace as well. I just don't know why they do it. You just don't feel safe with a group of that size about."

The same group are thought to be responsible for a number of criminal damages and the cause of a host of complaints by residents.

Sholing councillor Susan Blatchford, who lives around the corner from the play area, said: "What struck me first of all was the amount of beer cans and bottles all over the place. It is incredible that they were able to get hold of that amount and I would be looking to licensees to think hard about who they are selling to.

"The play area is well used, but it is the night-time when groups start to congregate. It is a shame when they abuse equipment like they have done here."

Anyone with information on the incident can contact PC Scorey on 0845 045 4545.