VANDALS who have tarnished a 'green oasis' in Darwen are to be forced out as part of a new plan to restore it to its natural glory.

Residents who use Ashton Park can look forward to a new activity area, extra footpaths and a playing field, as well as a repaired pond which may be used for fishing and wildlife areas.

The scheme will also include improved access for people with mobility difficulties.

Work on the five-acre facility is expected to be completed by Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council next spring.

Peter Hunt, director of direct services for the council, said: "Ashton Park is more naturalistic than a formal park, containing extensive woodland belts where the grass is allowed to grow long underneath.

"Additionally, the site houses a lodge, a small play area, and several areas of grassland used by the public and which are maintained by the council on a regular basis.

"Unfortunately, the site suffers from vandalism so we are working with the Friends of Ashton Park to try to improve this important green oasis for residents of the area."

The council has asked Frank Hull, of Ashton Road, Darwen, the man who devised the idea for the park 24 years ago, to create a residents' group.

Council officers have told him that the best way to unlock funds for improvement would be to form the group, following on from the success of groups supporting Sunnyhurst Woods and Bold Venture Park, also in Darwen.

Several weeks ago he appealed in the Lancashire Evening Telegraph for volunteers to help set up the group, but few have come forward.

He said the residents' group was vital to the park's future to prevent it becoming run-down again after the improvement project.

Anyone interested in joining Mr Hull should call him on 01254 761699.