PLAY workers disillusioned about the state of their nursery hut say they are desperate for a new home after a spate of vandal attacks.

The Playaway group, which provides activity sessions for the under-fives, rent a portable cabin from the council at the former Brandlesholme Primary School site.

Vandalism has plagued the hut, already nearing the end of its life span, with regular damage to roofs, fences and windows. The group had hoped for a move to new accommodation during the summer, but with funding not yet available, plans for a replacement are on hold.

Margaret Kirby, who runs the sessions, found wood torn from the side of the hut and signs of attempted arson after the latest attack.

Mrs Kirby said: "The wood is so rotten on the outside that vandals can pull off whole lengths. The hut is so dilapidated that any bit of vandalism becomes a major problem. The council know the condition of the place, but as usual we are at the bottom of the list when it comes to getting it sorted out." Building inspectors who visited last year said the cabin could be used until this summer. Another survey this year has extended that period, allowing money for a replacement to be raised from the sale of the old school site.

"Now they're saying that they will do some repairs and we'll keep it a bit longer," added Mrs Kirby, who is pictured (left) with children outside the hut along with deputy leader Christine Greaves (centre) and assistant Janet Scott.

"We're in the same situation we were 12 months ago and are still no nearer to a solution."

Ward councillor Yvonne Cresswell gave her backing to the group: "If it had to close there would be nothing else like it in Brandlesholme. We should all be supporting people like Margaret.

"When you consider that it is being used by young children and that we're trying to encourage such facilities in Bury, we need to find the money from somewhere."

Head of client services Martin Hall confirmed a replacement building was planned, to be erected at the current Playaway site.

He said: "We have done another survey to keep the scheme up and running and as soon as funds become available we are going to tender for a replacement."