Hull play parks destroyed by fire as parents react with anger and disbelief

Two of Hull's play parks have been targeted by vandals with photographs showing children's climbing frames and play equipment melted to the ground.

Humberside Fire and Rescue Service was called to two fires at play parks on Sunday, November 17. The first was at Alderman Kneeshaw Park near Valiant Drive at about 7:30pm and the second was at Bellfield Park on Bellfield Avenue, Ings Estate, at about 8:30pm.

Parent and former resident Rachel Clark said crime in the area makes her feel unsafe. She told Hull Live: "It's so upsetting. We used to live on Bilton Grange and my children loved Alderman Kneeshaw Park. The slide that was burned down was my son's favourite slide and I have lots of photos and happy memories of my children playing on it.

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"That's what makes it so upsetting, the fact that it's young children who are going to suffer because of these mindless vandals. We now live on Ings and I daren't even go to the parks here.

"The one time I took my children to Grasby Park a firework was shot at us and they don't want to go back again. It's just constant reports of fires, vandalism and anti social behaviour that it makes you feel unsafe in your own neighbourhood."

Sharing photographs of the destruction, a resident who did not wish to be named said: "It's just mindless idiots that are spoiling and ruining such a lovely park." They claimed that "lots of other fires that have been occurring on the park every night" and believe CCTV and lighting, or even locking the park at night would deter the vandals.

A spokesperson for Humberside Police said: "Enquiries are ongoing following reports of arson at two play parks in the East Hull area on Sunday 17 November."

Local Neighbourhood Policing Inspector Jo Harvey said: “Arson is not only a selfish act, it can also be incredibly dangerous and I would like to offer my reassurance to the local community that we remain committed to tackling such crimes.

"Families and children should be able to enjoy their local parks without disruption and risk to safety, and it is totally unacceptable for these play parks to be damaged by individuals intent on causing harm.

"As part of our ongoing investigation, we are carrying out extensive enquiries alongside Humberside Fire and Rescue Service to identify those responsible.

"We continue to review CCTV footage and have increased our high visibility patrols, both to gather information and to provide reassurance to the local community.

"I urge anybody with any information that could assist our enquiries or anybody with concerns around antisocial behaviour to report it to us. Even small details can help us build a clearer picture and take effective action to keep our communities safe."

"You can report information by calling our non-emergency number 101 or by dialling 999 in an emergency or if there is a crime ongoing. Alternatively, you can report information anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111."