VANDALS have wrecked the recently-completed Millennium Green in the west of York.

Volunteers, who took more than four years to transform the rundown open space in Leeman Road into a green oasis, said they were "shocked and upset".

The culprits skidded round the green in a Peugeot car before crashing into a tree sapling and running off.

Police are investigating the incident.

Members of Leeman Road Millennium Green Trust overcame serious delays and funding shortages to rejuvenate the area which was once an overgrown mess.

Secretary Mary Rothery, who collected an Evening Press Proud To Be York award for their efforts, said: "We're very, very upset. It's very sad that after five years work and all that money someone has come along and spoilt it in one mad action.

"We've just planted thousands of bulbs, so we hope they're not disturbed. It will now take extra dilligence from the local community to keep an eye on the place."

Updated: 10:53 Saturday, January 18, 2003