A PLAY area set on fire and destroyed by arsonists will be rebuilt next month after funds were raised to replace it.

The destroyed play area, in South Park, will be replaced with a structure that pays homage to Darlington's heritage as the birthplace of the railways.

Charity Groundwork North East and Cumbria has secured the funds it needs to replace the play equipment.

And following consultation with the public, the pirate boat play set destroyed by fire will be replaced by a large train-themed structure.

The South Park Express will pay tribute to Darlington's railway heritage and will include elements such as climbing, sliding and imaginative play.

Groundwork stepped in to raise more than £20,000 through donations and fundraising activities after the former play area was set alight by vandals in February.

Family fun days were held at the park and donations were made by individuals and organisations including Darlington Borough Council, Darlington's Bondgate Round Table and County Durham Community Foundation.

Lisa Locke, Tees Valley Programme Manager for Groundwork, said: “It was devastating when the old play area was destroyed by mindless vandals, but the community spirit we’ve experienced and the support from the public has been overwhelming.”

Those responsible for the fire have been caught and as part of their punishment have been working, unpaid in the park alongside the Council’s Street Scene staff.

Inspector Chris Knox, of Darlington Police, added: “The response to this offence from the community has been excellent and the offenders were identified from information from the community. The intervention plan for the three young males also involved a face to face meeting with members of the Council and a financial contribution."