A group of Edinburgh vandals have been described as "senseless" after destroying a number of green spaces in Sighthill.
Police have now appealed for information after emergency firefighters had burning objects "hurled" at them while trying to extinguish the intentional blazes.
Taking place over the last week, the incidents have seen significant damage in Sighthill Park, as well as the local woodlands and rugby pitches.
With a series of fires being lit, local Councillor Ashley Graczyk hit out at the youths, and shared a series of images showing the extent of the damage.
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Speaking on social media, she said: "Over the last week Sighthill Park has been subject to a spate of senseless vandalism which has seen the local greenspace, community woodlands and even the rugby pitches targeted wheelie bins were set alight around the perimeter of the American Football Field using petrol cans.
"Some were torched in the middle of the field putting the pitch out of action as plastic and metal had melted into the pitch. The practices for youths, juniors and varsity teams had to be relocated. Local residents living near the park complained of local property and bins being stolen.
"What was even more shocking was the escalation of violence directed to the fire service who attended the scene over the weekend, this is after all the repairs and clear up by the Council and Napier Uni earlier in the week. The fire service could not deal with the fires until the arrival of the police as they were being threatened by youths hurling burning items at them.
"Glass bottles have been deliberately smashed up on the pitches and surrounding areas of the park & some local dog owners had their pets taken to the vet due to glass cuts in their paws.
"This is immensely upsetting & disheartening for the local community who love & use this beautiful green space. It is also disappointing for the council officers, and other stakeholders who have put so much work into this community asset for the enjoyment of all."
Hoping to hold those responsible accountable, an appeal from Police Scotland said:
"We’ve had several reports of fires being lit by youths in and around Sighthill Park recently.
"These youths threw stones at the Fire Service when they attended, preventing a quick response. Please contact us if you have any info or CCTV that might help."
Anyone with relevant information can contact the police on 101.
