TEENAGE arsonists who destroyed a popular play area have helped to fund new equipment as part of their punishment.

The popular play area at South Park, Darlington, was burned down in an arson attack by three teenagers in February.

As part of their punishment, the parents of the teenagers – who are all 14 – have donated money to a fundraising campaign to repair and replace the play equipment, with some of the youths taking up paper rounds to pay their parents back.

They also met with members of Darlington Borough Council and apologised for their actions, and have taken part in litter picks and weeding in South Park.

Darlington Police Neighbourhood Inspector, Chris Knox, said: “Through this process they have all learned valuable lessons in life which hopefully means they will now become upstanding members of the community.

“As part of the restorative approach, they have been working with our partners, like County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service and Darlington Youth Offending Service to be educated on the risks of fires and realise the impact their actions had on their communities.

“The response to this offence from the community has been excellent and I’d just like to thank them for their help in identifying the offenders, and their fundraising efforts to raise money to repair the site.”

£20,000 has been raised through the campaign, which was launched by Groundwork North East and Cumbria with donations made by individuals, businesses and organisations, including Darlington Borough Council, Darlington’s Bondgate Round Table and County Durham Community Foundation.

The money will be used to replace the play equipment with a large train-themed structure which is set to open by the summer holidays and will pay homage to Darlington’s railway heritage.

Cllr Nick Wallis, the Council’s cabinet member for leisure and local environment said: “This is a great example of restorative justice in action and shows what can be achieved when the community, police, council and partners work together.

“The generosity of residents, local organisations and companies in helping raise the money needed to replace the damaged equipment shows what the park means to so many people and we’re delighted that the toddler play area will be reopened for the summer holidays for families to enjoy.”

CCTV and extra police patrols will continue in the park in a bid to prevent further incidents.