ARSONISTS have destroyed part of New Brighton's iconic Mermaid Trail in a disgusting act of vandalism.

These shocking pictures, taken by Frank Lund show the destruction left by thugs in Vale Park in the early hours of this morning.

Merseyside police and fire service have launched an investigation.

The Mermaid statue in Vale Park had been sponsored by New Brighton residents Carl and Rose Leckie, in celebration of their 55th wedding anniversary.

A devastated Mr Leckie told the Standard's sister title the Wirral Globe this morning:

"Everyone loves the Mermaid Trail and what has happened this morning is distressing; we're speechless.

"I'm just hoping that there is CCTV of this and they catch who did it."

Rose added: "I don't know what the world's coming too, when people do something like this."

The statues, which bring the legend of the Black Rock Mermaid, to life were unveiled to the public in June last year.

Created by Barry Canning-Eaton, each mermaid had been individually decorated, five of them by schools and a community group.

The statues are accompanied by information boards which takes followers through a story based on the legend of the Black Rock Mermaid who is said to have appeared to a local sailor in New Brighton during the 18th century.

Starting from Kings Parade the first statue is next to the Championship Adventure Golf and moves on to Victoria Road and Atherton Street close to the town's train station.

Other locations include Seabank Road, the promenade and Victoria Parade.

The project was made possible after a successful bid for £10,935 to the Burbo Bank Extension Community Fund by the New Brighton Coastal Community Team.

Commenting on the fire Wirral Globe columnist Peter Grant said: "The six Mermaids are one of the most innovative tourist attractions New Brighton has seen evolve in recent years and they are a wonderful compliment to the beautiful, iconic Lighthouse.

"To see one of these creative creatures vandalised has sickened me and all of those from the council and the talented individuals and local school children who worked on this project.

"This piece of environmental thuggery in Vale Park has to stop and the community are right to urge anyone who knows about this senseless destruction to come forward and report anything they have seen.

"I am sure this Mermaid will rise again thanks to the dedication of the spirited people who made them happen in the first place."