PARENTS are being warned to be vigilant after a spate of attacks by vandals at two children's playgrounds in Newport.

In the past week there have been seven separate incidents of grease and oil being smeared on the children's play equipment at the Shaftesbury and Glebelands parks.

The grease has been spread across the parks' slides and climbing-frames at random.

Council bosses are concerned the playground pranks could leave children open to serious accidents and are asking parents to be extra careful.

So far no one has been injured but it is feared that unless the vandals are stopped it is only a matter of time before a child slips and is hurt.

Community safety wardens have stepped up patrols and local police are urging residents to report any suspicious behaviour in the areas.

Newport council's member for Shaftesbury, Councillor Paul Cockeram, said he would be investigating the matter further.

"Clearly, this is very inappropriate behaviour - I just don't know what they get out of doing something like this," he said.

He added: "They must have little brothers and sisters who are using this type of play equipment."

Councillor Ed Townsend, Newport council's member for St Julian's, said: "There have been a lot of problems with the children's play area in Glebelands, making it very worrying for parents.

"First of all the roundabout was set on fire a number of weeks ago, then the safety surface was dug up, and now this latest incident.

"It's just one more example of how people are making life difficult and unpleasant for the community, and it's time it was stopped.

"People need to inform the police if they see anything suspicious and we need to ensure that those responsible are caught."

A spokeswoman for Gwent Police said: "We are aware of the incidents.

"If anyone has seen anything or knows anything about them please contact us on 01633 838111."