Vibrant community hub burned to the ground in suspected arson attack

A vibrant community hub used by mental health and disability groups has been burned to the ground in a suspected arson attack.

The callous attack on the pink shed and gazebo at Earth Moves, on the former Telegraph Lane Market Gardens in Wallasey, happened on Thursday, May 2. The grassroots group was forced to cancel its upcoming free events, including a mental wellbeing gardening session and a disability-inclusive dance class.

Earth Moves co-founder Paula Staunton said: “We are heartbroken to announce that our beloved community shed at the Earth Moves site has been destroyed by arson. This was a space built with love, for the community, by the community to allow a space for connecting to nature and each other.

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“It's so sad that our work has been made harder by this event. Many vulnerable people are connected to our project, where we offer regular free events and eco therapies. We won't let this destroy our spirit, a community cannot be destroyed by burning down a building.”

The destroyed shed was built using grant funding and donations, representing years of hard work and volunteer hours. Just last weekend, families enjoyed a free art workshop in the space, which was also used as a classroom for learning about Britain's native as part of Earth Moves' Spring bat talk and walk.

Nearby crops were also reduced to ashes in the blaze, which happened at around 4am on May 2. Merseyside police said the cause of the fire remains unconfirmed, but Earth Moves believe it was a malicious act of arson.

Paula said: “The destruction of our community shed leaves us grappling with questions of how someone could commit such an act. Burning a community space and all the innocent plants too. But even in the face of this tragedy, we refuse to lose hope. The response we have had so far in support of our project means we know we are doing good work, and this will continue.”

A GoFundMe has been set up by Earth Moves to replace the shed and its contents, including tables, chairs, art, cooking and education materials, first aid kits and a solar panel.

People who want to donate items such as plants, chairs, tables and are able to bring them to the site are asked to email info@earthmoves.org.

Community policing inspector Nicola Hughes said: "This incident has caused significant distress, inconvenience and impact to the activities of this really important community project.

"At this stage, the cause of the fire is unconfirmed but if you have any information or saw anything suspicious in the area please let us know and we will take action."

Anyone with information is asked to contact @MerPolCC or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 with reference 24000403673.

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