‘MINDLESS’ vandals went on the rampage, causing damage at Padiham Leisure Centre just weeks after a £1.25 million refurbishment.

Council chiefs said offenders caused hundreds of pounds worth of damage to windows in an overnight attack between Saturday and Sunday.

It comes just weeks after the improved centre was unveiled following a makeover funded by the National Lottery and taxpayers.

Town Hall bosses said they were “very disappointed” that the centre has been damaged by the people who should be benefitting from it.

The vandals targeted double-glazed windows in the pool hall, cracking three outer glass panes but not smashing them completely.

Council bosses who run the facility said windows had been boarded up, pending repair, and that services had not been effected.

Gerard Vinton, head of leisure and recreation services, said: “We’re very disappointed that local youths have targeted the leisure centre after we have spent more than £1.25million on its refurbishment.

“We have tried to create a facility which gives all users a fantastic experience and a few mindless people are trying to spoil it for the other residents of the town.

“If anyone sees anyone acting suspiciously at the centre I would encourage them to contact the police and report it.”

The centre in Station Road was officially reopened at the end of August following a £1.25million refit. Improve-ments at the revamped centre include a new large fitness room with state-of-the-art exercise equipment.

There is also a separate kids gym for eight to 14-year-olds, and a dance studio, as well as changing areas, reception and health studio.

Police said they were aware of the incident and that an inve-stigation had been launched.

Anyone with information should call Burnley Police on 01282 425001 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.