School grateful for community support in wake of arson attack on reading area
A school has thanked the community for their overwhelming support following an arson attack which destroyed their outdoor reading area.
Staff at Bromley Hills Primary School, in Kingswinford, said they were 'horrified' to discover the damage in the reception class playground which took place in the early hours of June 30.
Vandals set fire to the wooden structure leaving just the charred remains on the playground at the front of the school.
The school posted photographs on their social media to help trace those responsible for the vandalism.
Through the school Twitter account, staff said: "Thanks to everyone who has shared our story. We are overwhelmed by the support and offers of help to put things right. Thank you so much!"
Kingswinford Councillor Dave Tyler said it was an upsetting incident that would remain in the children's memories.
He said: "I was absolutely appalled that anyone could do that.
"During times like this I would ask all the community to continue to support any fundraising efforts.
"It is crucial that we don't get into this mindless vandalism state of mind.
"It is terribly upsetting for the youngsters and their families - this is something that they are going to remember for the rest of their lives and we want to be creating happy memories not horrible ones like this."
Deputy headteacher Jo Rogers said the play area, which had been used by the school for many years, had been 'completely obliterated' by the vandals.
Mrs Rogers said the school in Granville Drive had been the target of minor vandalism before but this was the first time major damage had been caused.
She said following the incident: "It's been burnt to the ground. It was a wooden structure with seats where the children could sit and cosy up with blankets and cushions for reading and role play. Its been at the school for many years.
"We're absolutely horrified that anyone would do this to a children's learning area."
The school is appealing for any witnesses or anyone with information about the fire to come forward to speak to police in a bid to catch the culprits.
Anyone with information is asked to contact 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
