A hugely popular kid’s elf trail in Belfast has been vandalised.
The elf trail at Woodvale Park was installed three years ago as part of the Greater Shankill Winter Festival and has provided a great outlet for families from the Shankill and Woodvale.
However, it has now emerged that one of the trail’s main features was set on fire.
DUP Councillor Nicola Verner told Belfast Live that it was 'gutting' to see the trail damaged.
She said: “The Elf Trail was installed three years ago as part of the Winter Festival.
“It is a great addition to Woodvale park and provides positive quotes, inspiration and is a lovely feature in the park for young children.
“There have been a few incidents in the past but it was hoped that destruction had settled. Now, more than ever, outdoor space is important.
“I was completely gutted to see one of the main features had been set on fire. I just can’t understand what anyone would get from doing this.
“Hopefully we can get it replaced - one bad act should not prevent hundreds more children enjoying the Elf Trail.
“In terms of the park itself, antisocial behaviour has been on the rise, however working alongside council, local police and community, myself and my colleague Brian Kingston have held several community meetings and we have seen a decline since.
“This recent incident is unfortunate but will not deter us from ensuring the park is a space everyone can enjoy.”
