Youngsters have been causing damage to Eglinton Castle ruins as police probe a gang assault that left a boy needing hospital treatment in the park.

A disgusted resident complained youngsters are ‘systematically destroying’ what is left of the castle by removing bricks from the historic site.

This comes after 16-year-old suffered an attack at the hands of several youths attack on Saturday, June 20,.

One visitor witnessed the aftermath of a ‘rather large party’ that evening, while a horse rider reported a teenager slapping her pony’s backside in the park earlier in the month.

He said: “Vandals are actually destroying the castle ruins. The tower at the castle is being systematically destroyed by people – probably the same ones responsible for the booze litter pile – removing large pieces of rock from the walls.

“Surely something should be done to stop this wanton destruction of one of our historic sites.”

A North Ayrshire Council spokesperson said: “It is saddening and disappointing to hear that this important landmark has been subject to vandalism.

“Our staff are aware of a small number of incidents in recent weeks and these were reported to the relevant department and areas were made safe and stable with loose and lying debris removed.

Police previously told the Times officers were made aware of disorder while patrolling Eglinton Park on Saturday, June 20, which is understood to have involved a large number of teenagers.

Police confirmed that a 16-year old boy was assaulted during the incident and taken to Crosshouse Hospital where he has since been discharged .Enquiries are still ongoing to identify the culprits and trace any witnesses in the park that evening.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “At about 7pm on Saturday June 20 police whilst on routine patrol were made aware of a disturbance that had occurred within Eglinton Park, Irvine, during which a 16-year-old youth was assaulted.

“The youth was required to attend Crosshouse Hospital for treatment for his injuries, before being discharged.”

Anyone who can help should contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting reference 3537 of 20/06.