Vandals target Lydgate Tunnel

A local parish councillor has condemned the actions of "mindless idiots" after the disused Lydgate Tunnel has been targeted by youths. 

The gates to the entrance of the historic tunnel are normally closed, but Saddleworth parish councillor Max Woodvine says he noticed they had been forced open to allow a congregation of youths inside. 

The tunnel running underneath Lydgate, connecting Grasscroft and Grotton, is still completely intact and maintained, but it is unused and completely inaccessible. It is due to be inspected by a Senior Technician from Oldham Council. 

The incident is the latest in a spate of criminal damage occurrences across Saddleworth and Lees recently. 

Earlier today, we reported that vandals have destroyed a children's play area in Lees - which is currently closed due to coronavirus restrictions. It's the seventh arson attack since the play equipment was originally installed in 2011. 

Cllr Woodvine commented: "Our dedicated Police Team work very hard but they have better things to do than worry about the behaviour of young people who should be locked down, in isolation. The weather is nice but that’s no excuse to wreak havoc across our villages.

“We’ve now seen a playground torched. This is a series of vandalism in just weeks. Who is going to replace that equipment, will OMBC have the money? Our small children will be deprived because of mindless idiots. Parents need to ensure that they know where there kids are!" 

Sgt Paul Heap said: "The first gate is insecure, although there is a second set further inside that is secure to prevent any access to the tunnel. I’ve sent this onto the community safety team to establish who is responsible for the site and then we can request them to make it secure.”