POLICE are stepping up patrols after a leisure centre and swimming pool were repeatedly targeted by vandals.

Considerable damage has been caused to Morton Leisure Centre, in Wigton Road, Carlisle, after windows were smashed and the premises broken into.

The latest incident happened in the early hours of Sunday.

A spokesman for Cumbria Police said they were called at 3.30am following reports that the fitness centre had been broken into and damage had been caused to windows and doors.

The force has now pledged to increase the police presence in the area. The spokesman said: “Officers would strongly urge anyone with information about this incident or any other incident at the facility to get in touch.

“Patrols have been increased in this area.”

The Morton Leisure Centre and pool is run by GLL, which runs a number of facilities in the city, including the Sands Centre.

Its pool is a popular venue for children’s swimming lessons.

Dave Carruthers takes his four-year-old daughter Hallie every Saturday, and was shocked when her lesson had to be cancelled a few weeks ago due to vandalism.

He took photos of the damage, which he has shared widely on social media in the hope of catching those responsible.

He told the News & Star: “The first time it happened I went up there with my daughter to go swimming.

“You could see all the staff were really upset. It was quite shocking to see all the broken windows, especially for a four-year-old.

“There were four windows smashed and some of the glass had gone onto the mats that cover the swimming pool.

“It was disgusting. I can’t understand why anyone would do that, and keep doing it.

“It’s just vandalism. Everyone is shocked.

“I don’t know if it kids or someone else, but I hope they catch them.

“I just don’t get it.”

Mr Carruthers believes that someone in the Morton area must know who is responsible, and is urging them to contact the police with any details.

Anyone with information about the latest vandalism - or any of the previous incidents - should call Cumbria Police on 101, quoting incident 44 of June 23.

You can also email 101@cumbria.police.uk or call

Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.