Firefighters Battle 17-Hour Blaze at Doncaster Playground
A massive fire broke out at Stainforth Welfare Ground, Doncaster, on Sunday 1 August, taking a staggering 17 hours to fully extinguish.
Contractor Waste Ignited in Arson Attack
Residents report that the flames engulfed waste left behind by contractors. South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue teams worked tirelessly to douse the rubbish and prevent the blaze from reigniting.
Residents Alarmed by Toxic Fumes
Locals were left terrified by the thick smell of burnt rubber and toxic fumes wafting through the park after the fire. Councillor Gary Stapleton slammed the arsonists, tweeting:
“Arsonists struck again at a playground in Stainforth causing considerable risk to health and the environment (burning rubber). The contractors that left it, despite warnings, MUST be made to remove this dangerous material. Thanks to South Yorkshire Fire and South Yorkshire Police for a swift response.”
Fire Brigade’s Official Statement
According to South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue, two crews from Thorne and Doncaster rushed to the scene at 7:35pm after matting was deliberately set on fire at the playground on Church Road. The crews initially left the site at 9:25pm but returned to keep the fire under control through the night.
The fire was finally put out after a relentless 17-hour effort, highlighting the dangers posed by leftover contractor waste and arson attacks in public spaces.
