ARSONISTS have caused about £300 worth of damage to an allotment shed and greenhouse.

Alan Swannell, 39, has had an allotment at Brinkburn, in Darlington, for a year. He says while there have been burglaries and vandalism, lately things have got out of hand.

"Last week my shed was broken into, but nothing was taken. Whoever did it did about 14 others as well, though," he said.

"But then on Sunday, they broke in again and set a bonfire inside my shed.

"It needs to be taken down and rebuilt. They took all my tools, or set fire to them, as well as all my seeds. It will cost about £300 to replace or rebuild.

"It is bad enough we have people breaking into the sheds and even stealing the vegetables from the ground."

Mr Swannell said he partly blamed Darlington Borough Council for the problems, because a fence between the allotment and a neighbouring housing development is broken down, so children can easily get into the allotments.

"There are sheds being broken into left right and centre at the moment," he said.

"I just want parents to ask themselves 'Do I know what my child is up to?" Because I don't think they do."

A borough council spokesman said: "We are aware of the situation and will continue to work together with the allotment holders to resolve the issues."

The fire at Mr Swannells' shed happened at about 7pm on Sunday. Anyone with information is asked to contact police on (01325) 467681.