LANO'S Bridge in Tout Quarry - one of the Portland's most significant legacies of 19th century quarrying - is the latest target for vandals.

Coun Margaret Leicester is horrified by the damage and is also deeply concerned over the probable danger facing walkers in the quarry.

She said: "Youngsters were spotted digging into the banks at the side of thebridge and dislodging the dry stone walls which support it and people walking under the bridge could be at risk from collapsing stones."

"This is another example of our precious heritage being destroyed through mindless vandalism."

She added: "The area will be shut off and warning signs given prominence but it is an urgent matter that people intending to visit Tout should be made aware. The damage could cause the whole structure to be undermined and with the earth being so dry at present it will be particularly vulnerable to landslip if we have heavy rain."

Island historian Stuart Morris was shocked when he heard of the damage but said it was not the first time that Lano's Bridge had come under attack.

He said: "As long as the arch and its keystones are in place, it should be possible to repair the damage.

"There are lots of willing people experienced in dry stone walling on the island and the job could be done under proper supervision.

"The bridge was constructed by quarry agent and landowner Jonathan Comben Lano in 1854 and was used for the transport of stone, rubble and waste by horse drawn carts.

"This bridge is an important historical feature symbolising 19th century quarrying in the Tophill area," added Mr Morris, "and the sooner it is repaired the better all round."