A mum was left horrified after finding shards of broken glass glued to children's play equipment at a park in Fazakerley.
The shards, believed to have been placed there deliberately, were located on the side of the swings and slide in Seeds Lane Park.
One woman, who wishes to remain anonymous told the ECHO: "It scares me a little knowing that there are such cruel people nearby and not knowing what they’re going to do next.
The mum, who works as an early years professional, said: "I have two children, one three-year-old and one five-month-old.
"As a parent, this not only saddens me to think my child could have been seriously hurt but makes me feel sick to my stomach that there are people within this community that would wish harm to children."
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She continued: "I am always promoting the benefits of outdoor play and physical exercise but this makes me understand why parents want to keep their children locked up indoors even at the risk of their mental health when their physical health is at risk by such horrid people.
The mum has now vowed to never take her children to this park again after uncovering the glass.
She said: "I still take my children to the local parks but I will check the equipment and surrounding area before I let them in the gate.
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"Again, it saddens me to have to do this but I also have to keep them safe so if they have to wait five to ten minutes for me to do a risk assessment before they can play, then that’s what we’ll do."
Merseyside Police confirmed to the ECHO that they are investigating a report of criminal damage.
A spokesperson said: "We were called shortly after 9am on April 15 that broken glass had been reportedly glued to the slide and swings in the play area in the park.
"Although this was reported to us on 15th, the incident is believed to have happened between 5pm on 13th April and 9am on 14th April."
Detective Inspector Graeme Towndrow said: “Thankfully this is a hugely rare occurrence and no one was hurt.
"Despite this, I am really concerned that someone would even consider doing this.
"This is absolutely appalling, dangerous and careless behaviour which could have caused serious injuries to children trying to enjoy the park.
“The glass has since been removed and we are working with the Council and our communities to identify those responsible."
A spokesperson for Liverpool City Council said: "The council are shocked and appalled that someone could do something this sickening and if anyone has any information please contact the police."
Anyone with information should direct message @MerPolCC or call 101 quoting log 186 of 15/4/19.
