Police are investigating after vandals targeted a popular Aberdeenshire walking spot for the second time in six months.
Vandals have damaged a pay and display machine at Scolty Forest, near Banchory “beyond repair” for the second time since October.
The Forestry Commission is concerned the incidents could turn people away from visiting the area, as income from the parking meter is used to keep the walkways in good repair.
Without the finance, forest rangers say they would be unable to keep up with building and repair work on all the trails and paths, as well as providing information on the woodlands to the public.
Dan Cadle, of Forestry Commission Scotland, said the acts of the vandalism affect everyone who uses the woods.
He added: “One of the jobs we had planned was to carry out repair work to the yellow trail over the summer but this may now not be possible.
“We had also planned to replace all of the picnic tables.”
A police spokeswoman said: “We have received a report of vandalism.
“Inquiries are ongoing. If anyone saw anything, or has information, they should contact us on 101.”
Crucial parking ticket machine vandalised twice in six months
