A suspected arson attack has led to the destruction of newly-installed benches at at Tom Huyton Park in Radstock.

Avon Fire and Rescue Service were called to the scene just before 9.30pm on Friday, March 7, by a member of the public who saw the flames.

An investigation is underway as emergency services believe the fire was started deliberately.

The park has remained closed by Radstock Town Council since the fire took place so the debris can be cleared up, but the council hopes to have it reopened by Wednesday (March 12).

The fire damaged brand new public property that had recently been installed at the park with two bins and three accessible picnic benches and tables having been destroyed by the blaze. The benches had had only been installed by the council’s grounds team two weeks before the incident.

Radstock Town Council has set up a crowdfunding page to raise money in order to replace what has been damaged, with £691 having already been donated as of Monday, March 10.

The benches and bins cost the council around £4,000 but there is hope an insurance payout will cover the cost of the damages, which will mean any donations made can be used to further improve the area.

THe newly installed picnic tables and benches prior to the arson.
The newly installed picnic tables and benches prior to the arson. (Radstock Town Council)

The improvements include the installation of new play equipment and the refurbishment of public toilets.

The council has thanked the fire crew which was called put out the fire, the police, and residents who raised the alarm. The council also encourage anyone with relevant information to come forward.

A spokesperson for Avon Fire and Rescue Service said: “Officers attended Tom Huyton Park in Radstock at just before 9.30pm on Friday, March 7, after a member of the public reported a fire within the play area.

“The fire and rescue service was at the scene and therefore able to put out the fire, which damaged three benches and two bins. The fire is being treated as deliberate.

“An investigation into this incident is underway and we’ll be reviewing all available CCTV and other forms of footage to identify those responsible.

“If you have any information or relevant footage, please call us on 101 and give the call handler the reference number 5225069846.”

Damage caused by the fire to an accessible picnic table and benches
Damage caused by the fire to an accessible picnic table and benches. (Radstock Town Council)
Damage caused by the fire to an accessible picnic table and benches.
Damage caused by the fire to an accessible picnic table and benches. (Radstock Town Council)

Chris Dando, mayor and chairman of Radstock Town Council (Radstock Centre Ward, Labour) said: “Vandalism is so frustrating and disappointing for everyone. Radstock Town Council is a small team and this really does make us all sad as we all put a lot of time and effort into creating a space for everyone to enjoy.

“While I am sure the benches and bins will be covered by insurance, it would be great to turn this negative into a positive and have funds to support further improvements to the park.

“The town council has completed two of the five phases. The next stages will be to improve the landmark octi-play, the small children’s area and the original toilets. Radstock is an amazingly resilient and great community we come back bigger and better.”