Allotments clubhouse burns down

Arsonists have burned down a clubhouse and shop at a popular Tipton allotments.

Lee Howl Allotments, in Robert Road, was targeted by vandals over the weekend, prompting fears that the building may have to be demolished.

It is believed the raiders also stole tools in the attack on Saturday night.

The blaze caused more than £80,000 damage.

The site was used to store tools and fertiliser, and also housed a kitchen, computer room and toilet.

John Harrison, aged 67, of Andrew Road, treasurer of the allotments society, said: "In the past 12 years we have had sheds burnt out and sheds stolen the day after they have been erected.

"The clubhouse was set on fire some time on Saturday night and the first we knew of it was when we arrived on Sunday morning.

"It was a huge shock to see it like this and it is a terrible shame."

As well as the damage caused by the blaze, an $800 cultivator was stolen.

Sandwell Council allotments officer Barbara Carroll said she was "gutted" by the attack and hoped the people responsible would be caught.

"I am stunned to see it like this and it is such a shame that it has happened," she said.

"I feel really sorry for the people here because they do not harm anyone and to see this happen is devastating."