We are investigating a fire at the playing fields on Addison Road in Preston.

The between 11:30pm on Saturday 6th April to 9:30am on Sunday 7th April 2019 the outside play equipment on Preston Playing field, Addision Road, Preston was severely damaged by an arson attack.

The popular "Ship" play slide and climbing frame was attacked sometime between 11.30pm on Saturday 6 and 9.30am on Sunday 7 April. It had been set alight causing the plastic to melt and the surrounding grass to be burned.

The play equipment, part funded by the residents and Preston Parish Council, is damaged beyond repair and will be closed for some time due to safety reasons.

Police Community Support Officer Darren Bainton said, “I am absolutely appalled that this senseless act has caused such devastation to what is practically a brand new play area and at the heart of our community in Preston.

"I'm sure the young users of the park will be devastated that their favourite piece of play equipment is now destroyed, especially as we are in the school Easter holidays.

"I want to find out who did this mindless act on what was a real asset for the community and I’m hoping that someone knows who has carried it out.

“I have been speaking to parents and residents while conducting enquiries into the incident and it has clearly upset the community."

If you witnessed anything suspicious around this time or in the area or know who is responsible, please call our non-emergency number 101 and quote reference 16/45047/19

Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 if you do not wish to speak to the police.