Most of Eastbourne's 38 play areas have been ruined by vandals, according to a residents' group.

The Tenants Advisory Group is calling for action to stop gangs of youths vandalising playgrounds and terrorising neighbours at night.

At a meeting tonight the group is expected to call for cash to revitalise the playgrounds, which members hope will help solve the problem.

Play areas are inspected daily but the group believes Eastbourne Council should invest more in cleaning and modernising them.

A report by the director of tourism, leisure and amenities highlights the extent of the problem.

Two playgrounds are now being locked at night after complaints about noise and abuse from gangs.

But when a ranger tried to lock a playground in Avard Crescent, youths threw stones at him and jumped on his car as he tried to leave.

The report reveals that the annual playgrounds budget is £33,700, but a large chunk is being spent on repairing damage caused by vandals.

Bob Backhouse, chairman of Eastbourne Council's Tenants Advisory Group, said: "I will be pushing to see further resources allocated to the provision of more modern facilities.

"The council is endeavouring to devote more money to facilities such as BMX tracks, but we hope to implement more investment in equipment that will reflect the needs of young people.

"Vandalism and antisocial behaviour is not a big problem, but one that tends to occur in the summer when youngsters are kicking their heels.

"We want to bring facilities for young people in Eastbourne up to date. It is essential the council responds to the increase of teenagers in the town."