The Brimham Rocks have stood proud since the Ice Age, becoming a National Trust attraction and drawing visitors to one of the most striking landmarks in the Yorkshire Dales.

But after withstanding the elements for tens of thousands of years, the balancing sandstone rocks – also known as Millstone Grit – have fallen victim to a greater foe: vandals.

Police are hunting five youths who were spotted toppling one of the balancing stones from its perch, causing irreparable damage.

Pictures from the scene show the stone shattered into pieces after being pushed down a 30ft drop. The National Trust condemned the “mindless destruction” of the landmark.

“It might have been fun for some people. Actually, it is just completely pointless and needless,” said a National Trust spokesman.