Arsonists cause 拢20,000 damage to Ponteland Park boardwalk

Image source, Northumbria Police

Image caption, Northumbria Police said the damage would cost 拢20,000 to repair

Arsonists have caused 拢20,000 of damage to a park boardwalk.

Vandals set the wooden jetty and walkway in Ponteland Park alight sometime between 12:30 BST and 13:20 on Monday.

Northumbria Police said the damage was "so severe" a section of park has had to be closed.

Insp Garry Neill said it was "incredibly disappointing" and the force was "committed" to finding those responsible.

He said: "The mindless actions of a few have resulted in significant damage and their selfish behaviour now means that a section of the park cannot be enjoyed by families during the summer holidays."

Graeme Wright of Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service said 75% of outdoor fires crews attend are started deliberately which "directs our time and resources away from attending more serious incidents should they occur".

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