"OUTRAGE" blared the headline in the Gazette 25 years ago after vandal attacks on the Hills, including the toposcope.

"Mindless vandals who have committed a series of attacks on the Hills in the last week were branded as 'sick' by shocked Conservators.

"The most serious damage was to the Worcestershire Beacon's toposcope, which had its ¾-inch glass top smashed, probably by a masonry-type hammer.

"The glass, which was donated by Pilkington Brothers for the Conservators' 1984 centenary will have to be replaced."

Other incidents include an oxy-acetylene welder being used to open a parking meter at the West of England quarry, and an attempt to break into the Beacon cafe, which created "a lot of mess".

"There was also another act of vandalism which the Conservators are keeping secret for fear of copycat attacks," noted the Gazette mysteriously.

Conservator Sue Thetford, said: "Whoever did these things, especially the toposcope, must be very sick. They are sick and need attention."

And Chief Inspector Richard Binch warned possible offenders that the police would be increasing their presence in the Hills over the coming months.

Going back another 25 years, we find anti-social behaviour causing concern even then.

"Because of 'disgusting behaviour' by youths during evenings and weekends, the children's playground in Duke Meadow is to be enclosed by a chain link fence, at a cost of £100, and closed at 6.30pm each and all day Sunday.

"Mr Storer, chairman of the Parks and Open Spaces Committee, said they had received complaints of 'intolerable nuisance' being caused to the people who lived adjoining the property by the rowdyism and insulting behaviour. 'It is now reaching rather alarming proportions and the council must take positive action,' said Mr Storer.