Garston Park ‘burnt to the ground by vandals’ in fire

The playground equipment at the park, which has recently had investment and won a green flag award, was “burnt to the ground by vandals", councillors said.

The incident occurred at around 8.40pm on Saturday 23 October.

A 6ft wooden pirate ship was set on fire, causing extensive damage worth thousands of pounds.

A group of teenagers, wearing dark clothing, were seen running from the area around the time of the incident. 

Police officers have also visited with the park cordoned off with tape this morning.

Credit: Cllr Steve Cavinder

Councillors Jenny Pattinson, Amanda Grimston, Steve Cavinder and Peter Hannon said: “As your local Borough and County Councillors for Meriden ward we are absolutely devastated to see the scenes tonight in Garston Park.

“The council had worked so hard to make the park an enjoyable and safe place for our children to play.

“To see it burnt to the ground by vandals is just so sad. “We will work with the emergency services to ensure those responsible are held to account and we will support the council to rebuild and make the park safe as quickly as possible."

Cllr Steve Cavinder

Neighbourhood Sergeant Craig Butler said: “This senseless behaviour is extremely dangerous and has caused huge upset in the local community. Our enquiries are continuing at this time to identify and trace the people responsible.

“A group of teenagers, wearing dark clothing, were seen running from the area around the time of the incident." 

Herts Police are appealing for people with information to report it online quoting crime reference 41/82699/21.