Flower beds have been ripped up and holes dug in the ground of one of Neath's most popular parks.
The damage caused to Victoria Gardens near the town centre is just the latest in a series of incidents at the popular destination, including fires being lit, which have prompted fire crews to be called out.
Police said they were investigating the latest incident.
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Neath north councillor Alan Lockyer said: "The park was locked at the time but whoever has done it has jumped over the fence, and dug up the beds and dug up the lawns. They've left quite a mess.
"The grounds are kept in pristine condition and are used all year round. During the lockdown it was an amazing recreational facility for people, especially the elderly people who live all around."
He added: "There are railings around the park but it is not impregnable. The majority of people are law-abiding citizens. There is CCTV in the area and we believe it is young people out to cause malicious damage.
"People living in the area are appalled. Victoria Gardens is a jewel in Neath which is appreciated by a lot of people. It is not to be expected and there is a feeling of disgust.
"I'd just appeal for anyone who knows anything to contact police on 101. Whoever did this must have come home with mud on their shoes, and someone must know something".
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A spokesman for South Wales Police added: "Police in Neath are investigating a report of criminal damage and theft of shovels at Victoria Gardens, Neath, which occurred after 6pm on Thursday evening.
"The investigation is being progressed by the Neighbourhood Policing Team. Anyone with information as to the identity of the culprits is asked to contact South Wales Police, quoting 2100429150".
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