Council slams criminals who destroyed wooden ship in children's play park fire

Fire crews were called to Charlie's Park, off Church Bank, Jarrow, to attend a blaze which totally destroyed a wooden play ship and damaged rubber matting.

Following the incident, which happened on Friday, January 31, the community spoke out against those who had set the fire, calling for them to be brought to justice.

Others expressed sadness at the loss of the ship and how it would affect the children who liked to play there.

Now, South Tyneside Council has spoken of its disappointment following the fire – but pledged to look into “other measures” to keep the site safe for the local community.

Councillor Joan Atkinson, Lead Member for Area Management and Community Safety, said: “It is extremely disappointing that mindless vandals have made such significant damage to the play ship at Charlie’s Park that it has had to be removed from the area.

“The council made the area safe on Saturday morning and will be looking at other measures to ensure that the site remains safe for public use.

“The play ship was very popular with children and their families so it’s a great shame that this facility, which brought lots of joy to the children who played there, has been destroyed.

“I would like to remind residents that any information on deliberate fires can be reported anonymously through FireStoppers on 0800 169 5558.”