A children’s play park in Abbey Wood was destroyed last night (June 9) after a group of vandals set fire to a climbing frame.
Police in Thamesmead are appealing for any information regarding the suspected arson attack at Lesnes Abbey Woods which took place at around 8pm.
Bexley Borough Council officials say they are working with the police following the attack on one of the borough's most popular play areas.
Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Environment and Leisure, councillor Peter Craske says: "This despicable act of mindless vandalism cannot go unpunished.
"This much loved playground is one of the busiest in the borough. Someone knows who did this and I would urge them to contact the local police or Crimestoppers."
Twitter users have expressed their outrage after Thamesmead police officers posted their appeal for information online.
@MPSThamesmead Mindless parasites, my kids along with hundreds of others will be heartbroken. Someone somewhere knows the people responsible
— AmitP (@AmitP327) June 9, 2015
@MPSThamesmead Gutted. I was only there Friday with my nieces. Just disgusting and also the BEST slide for 2 year old niece! Best lark.
— Simone Gray (@SimoneGrayTC) June 9, 2015
@MPSThamesmead What the hell do people get out of doing things like this!
— lea (@leanda000) June 9, 2015
The lottery funded climbing equipment was quickly engulfed in flames which burnt brightly and sent thick black plumes of smoke into the air.
The climbing frame was quickly engulfed in flames.
Five firefighters and one engine from London Fire Brigade's Plumstead station tackled the blaze which was put out by 8.35pm.
Police want to speak to a group of five boys and four girls around between 14-16-years-old.
PC Chris Molnar said “This is a senseless and selfish act that will affect the local community. Do not protect those involved in this.”
A Met Police spokesman confirmed that they were called to the scene at around 8pm.
He said: “We have completed an arson report for the incident.
“There has been no arrests and inquiries continue.”
The burnt out climbing frame.
Did you see what happened? Get in touch at jessica.bell@london.newsquest.co.uk.
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