Play equipment at a park in Kirkby has been damaged in a deliberate fire, Ashfield District Council has said.
The council was alerted to the incident at West Park on Wednesday, August 12, and has released images showing the damage caused.
It described the incident as a crime which put people, wildlife and property at risk and said it would investigate to identify those responsible.
In a statement, Ashfield District Council said: “We are beyond saddened and disappointed to share these images.
“At a time when Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service is already incredibly busy tackling huge field fires across Nottinghamshire, the last thing they need is people putting lives at risk by setting fires and destroying play equipment.
“This is not just a bit of fun, or even anti-social behaviour. This reckless act is a crime that put people, wildlife and property at risk.”
The council’s Environment team will begin clearing the damaged area as soon as possible.
Anyone with information about the fire is being asked to contact Ashfield District Council by sending a direct message through its social media accounts or emailing info@ashfield.gov.uk.
The incident comes during a period of hot, dry weather in which firefighters have been dealing with several significant outdoor fires across Nottinghamshire.
Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service is asking residents not to light garden fires or use barbecues outdoors because of the risk of flames spreading rapidly across tinder-dry ground.
- Pictures: 16 fire crews tackled two simultaneous huge field fires in Nottinghamshire
- Fire service issues urgent ‘no garden fires’ warning as crews tackle two major incidents
Its safety advice is:
- Do not light garden fires
- Pack a picnic instead of a barbecue
- Dispose of cigarettes carefully
- Take rubbish home with you
