ANGRY councillors have condemned vandals who set fire to play equipment at Wyre Forest’s flagship park.

Rubber safety matting in a fenced play area within Brinton Park was set alight around 9pm last night (Wednesday 15 August).

Firefighters quickly brought the blaze under control, but eight rubber mats were destroyed.

Wyre Forest District Council’s parks team cordoned off the affected area first thing this morning and replaced eight damaged rubber mats and cleaned equipment and the area is now re-opened.

Cabinet Member for Operational Services Councillor Rebecca Vale said: “I cannot understand why anyone takes satisfaction in setting fire to a children’s playground.

“The park is popular all year round, but particularly busy during the summer holidays. It is such a shame that anyone would set out to wilfully disrupt children’s play in this way.

“I am very proud with the way our employees have responded to get the damage replaced and the equipment cleaned so quickly so local children don’t miss out.

“I would urge anyone who was in the area who may have seen anything, to contact the local police.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact West Mercia Police on 101 or via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.