Vandals in Witney have run up a bill of almost £17,000 in the past year.

Targets for attacks include play equipment, public toilets and the war memorial.

Mayor David Harvey said: "We are extremely concerned that these costs are rising and even more so that it is young people from the town who are responsible for the vandalism.

"We set a budget each year to try to ensure that levels of service are maintained to a high standard, and where possible to improve on these facilities.

"With the unexpected cost of vandalism, services undoubtedly begin to suffer and we are having to waste money on repairing the damage.

"Our insurance premiums rise and we have to install alarm systems."

Insp Darren Carver said: "We are doing everything we can, but we are reliant upon witnesses. I would put in a plea to young people in the town to respect property and the town they live in."

No antisocial behaviour orders (Asbos) have been issued in Witney, but several lower-level acceptable behaviour contracts (ABC) have been drawn up between young people, their parents and the police.

In Woodstock, three Asbos have been issued on youths. Town clerk Marion Moxon said the situation was "much better".

Chipping Norton Jo Graves said vandals caused £1,000 of damage a year. Less vandalism has been reported in Carterton.