A stark warning has been issued to people consistently ignoring the rules in a Kent park during the coronavirus pandemic, which has led to a rise in vandalism and anti-social behaviour.

The warning comes from Sandgate Parish Council after a group of people sat on the tennis net at Sandgate Park, in Military Road, and broke it "irrevocably".

But in the post about the tennis net the council also raised other issues, such as a rise in graffiti and littering and people still using the play and gym equipment despite it being taped off.

It warned that the equipment is "a potential Covid-19 infection machine" and that it will only be re-opened once "people have stopped dying of this virus".

The parish council also shared fears about "large groups" gathering in the park, especially in wake of some restrictions being lifted, and whether the people are adhering to the social distancing guidelines.

The council say the police are aware of the problems in Sandgate - which is between Folkestone and Hythe.

Cllr Tim Prater, chairman of the parish council, said: "In the last week or so, we have received multiple reports of large groups gathering at Sandgate Park in the afternoons and evenings, especially around the games pitches, and increasing reports of criminal damage in the area.

"The police and PCSOs are involved and watching the park, and we have other plans in hand.

"We want people to use and enjoy the park, but the playground and adult exercise equipment is taped off and closed for a reason.

"It's not just because the government says so - and they do - but you have to touch it to use it, and as it is not being cleaned between uses, it's a potential Covid infection machine.

"Please - do not use it, and ask children not to use it either.

"When people have stopped dying of this virus, and the government rules change, we promise we'll re-open.

"Equally, large groups are not permitted by government yet.

"We are happy for a limited number of people to use Sandgate Park's tennis court and basketball/football areas for that but in small groups.

"Again: this is to stop the transmission of a potentially fatal virus not just between those playing, but then on to friends, family, grandparents and anyone you come into contact with.

"There are signs: please read and obey them."

Other vandalism at the park includes damage to benches, littering and un-cleared dog fouling.

A Second World War pillbox, just across the road from the park, has also been covered in graffiti in recent weeks.

In follows a fire last year which saw the entire play climbing tower burned down in a late night attack. This has yet to be replaced.

Cllr Prater, who is also a member of Folkestone and Hythe District Council (FHDC), added: "Enjoy our parks. Don't damage them. Use them considerately of other users.

"Respect there are still some restrictions due to the ongoing global Covid pandemic. Observe social distancing - again due the the ongoing global pandemic.

"We'd ask any person that witnesses acts of criminal damage or non-observance with the current Covid-19 rules to call 101 and report it to the police."

It comes after FHDC recently installed extra measures at the Lower Leas Coastal Park in Folkestone following a spate of littering, fires, parking issues and late night gatherings.

Extra bins have now been installed, plus double yellow lines refreshed and new gates on the car parks.

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