A structure in an Oldham park has been destroyed in a “pointless” act of “disgusting” vandalism.

The willow structure in the shape of a crown was created by members of the organisation Friends of Dunwood Park and children and from the local community ahead of the King’s coronation next month.

On Tuesday (April 11) photographs of the wrecked structure were shared widely on social media triggering outrage among the community.

A post published on the Facebook page I love SHAW included photographs of the structure before and after it was targeted by vandals.

The post reads: “Think this was done on Monday at some point. Heartbreaking for the kids who helped make it.”

Commenting on the post one Facebook user wrote: “Absolutely gutted, our granddaughters helped make that and really enjoyed themselves doing it.

Another added: “My husband and I helped build the crown, so when we walked through the park yesterday and saw what had been done to it, we were so angry and disappointed.

“Can we have nothing in Shaw, without it getting wrecked?”

Several other commenters described the vandalism as “disgusting” and “disgraceful”.

A spokesperson for Oldham Council has confirmed that the local authority is looking to repair the structure and urged anyone with information reading the vandalism to come forward.

In a statement the spokesperson said: “We are deeply disappointed by this vandalism and those who are responsible should be ashamed of themselves.

“This is an amazing piece of work that was kindly done by the Friends of Dunwood Park and the local community.

“It was a wonderful addition to the park, created by children and adults from the area.

“Our teams will look to repair the feature as soon as they can.

“If anyone has any information about this pointless act of vandalism, contact Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 1111. Your contact details will be kept confidential.”