A SLIDE stolen from a children’s play area in Barnstaple has been recovered by police.

The theft of the slide, which was unbolted from East Park Road play area, was reported to the police by North Devon Council last month.

Following an investigation, the stolen slide has now been recovered and has undergone repairs before being reinstated at the park.

Executive Member for Parks and Leisure, Councillor Dick Jones, says: "I’m very pleased the slide has been found and that it’s back in its rightful place. It was very disappointing to hear that someone had taken the slide, a selfish act depriving local children of somewhere to play. Thankfully the police were able to locate it for us and it’s now back where it should be."

The council asks that if anyone notices any damaged or missing equipment at a North Devon Council park or play area, to please report it to the parks team on 01271 388326 during office hours, or (if it is an emergency issue only) out of hours on 01271 388240.

Alan Quick