PARENTS are calling for action over run-down play parks on a Weymouth estate.

Burnt out cars, engines, beer cans and broken glass are just as common in the parks as swings and slides and families have had enough.

A campaign has been launched at Littlemoor to clean up the area's seven parks and provide a better range of equipment.

The local landlord, Weymouth and Portland Housing, has worked hard to maintain areas but parents say it is time to get together and review the whole estate.

Mum Jacqueline Churchill of Rockhampton Close is helping to spearhead an action group which plans to consult families on what they would like to see happen.

It is hoped that Weymouth and Portland Housing, Weymouth and Portland Borough Council, the National Lottery and other bodies can be tapped for funding.

A meeting next week will get the ball rolling and all residents are invited.

Mrs Churchill, 33, who helps out at the local SureStart parents' group, said: "We're very much in need of decent facilities here at Littlemoor.

"Ideally we'd like to see play equipment for the toddlers as well as the older children.

"We also think something should be done about the state of the parks because they have been left to fall into a state of disrepair.

"It's important that our children should have somewhere safe to play, especially in the school holidays."

Julie Hursthouse, community development officer for Weymouth and Portland Borough Council, said she understood the housing company did not have the finances to refurbish all seven parks so there may have to be a fundraising campaign.

She said: "Parents are getting together and saying it's time for action.

"The first thing we need to do is to draw up a wish list and approach the housing company with our ideas."

Weymouth and Portland Housing says it has £20,000 to spend on play equipment and is waiting to hear from parents about the facilities needed. A spokesman said: "We are open to suggestions. However installing this equipment is a lengthy process because we have to consider the views of residents living near the parks and seek planning permission."

The meeting will be held at the New Inn on Littlemoor Road this evening at 7.30pm.

Contact Julie Hursthouse for more details on 01305 838497.