EQUIPMENT at a popular park was engulfed in flames after being set alight at the weekend in an act of “mindless, pointless vandalism”.

A gang of youths were spotted fleeing into the darkness after a fire was set against a fibreglass climbing rock at Middlesbrough’s Pallister Park.

Police say it will cost thousands to replace the equipment as they appealed for information about those responsible for the criminal damage.

The blaze, which happened at around 5.50pm on Sunday, came after five wheelie bins were stolen and set on fire over the weekend.

PC Chris Swales of Middlesbrough Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “The climbing rock was completely destroyed and will need to be removed by Middlesbrough Council, leaving the children who use the equipment disappointed and upset.

“It is also disappointing that, seemingly, young people have destroyed play equipment used by other young people in their neighbourhood and have ruined it for the community. “This, on top of the wheelie bin thefts and fires, is completely unacceptable.”

He added: “I would urge parents and carers to speak to their children and young people and reinforce our message that causing such damage IS a crime and we will do all we can to identify those responsible. “Not only are they causing damage to community property, but setting fires can be incredibly dangerous. “This must stop.”

Councillor Tracy Harvey, Middlesbrough Council’s Executive Member for Environment and Commercial Services, said the authority may be unable to provide a replacement climbing rock.

She said: “This sort of mindless, pointless vandalism is completely unacceptable and those responsible should be ashamed of themselves.

“This valued community facility will now cost a considerable sum to repair, and we may not be able to replace it.

“I would urge anyone with information on those responsible to come forward, and help ensure they face the full consequences of their actions.”

John Feeney, District Manager for Middlesbrough at Cleveland Fire Brigade added: “Arson is something that we will not tolerate.

“I would urge those in our communities to help in the fight against arson and report any suspicious behaviour and crimes they may be witness to.

“Together we can stop the small minority of individuals ruining our area and our environment.”

  • Any information about the damage to the climbing rock can be passed to PC Swales via the 101 number. Please quote event number 7929.