Arson probe after Second Gosport Play Park is torched
Police are appealing for anyone with information relating to a series of arsons at Gosport play parks to contact police. The most recent incident took place in the early hours of Monday morning (27 May) at the Grove Road playground where equipment was set on fire, causing around £3,300 worth of damage. An earlier incident on 18 May in the Forton Road rec saw a fire ignited beneath a slide. This took place shortly before 6pm. A third incident took place between 4.40am and 5am on Sunday 26 May at Alver Valley Country Park. Similarly, play park equipment had been set on fire. Inspector Richard Thompson said: “In the last two weeks Gosport has seen three incidents where play park apparatus has been damaged by fire. “It is very sad that these facilities, which are provided for the local community to use and have fun and for the younger generation to explore and build friendships, are being targeted in this way. “A member, or members, of our community have taken no regard for the affect their behaviour is having on the wider community as well as the danger they pose by starting a fire. “We are working in partnership with the local council to try and address this and prevent further incidents happening, so that more children don’t have to lose access to these valuable locations. “If you have seen anything, know who is responsible, or have any information, then please contact the police.” Anyone with information is asked to call us on 101, quoting 44190183137, or contact the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
