POLICE have launched an arson investigation following a fire at a children’s playground at Lido Park in Droitwich.

The incident occurred between 10pm and 10.30pm on Wednesday, July 2 at the playground area, when two people skating spotted the blaze, and reported it to the fire brigade.

Droitwich firefighters attended the scene, extinguishing the fire and dampening down the area, but police believed it has caused £20,000 worth of damage to playground equipment, completely destroying a multi-use climbing frame structure and the specialist flooring underneath it.

Police believe the fire was started deliberately, and would like to speak to two males of indeterminate age, who were reported to have been seen by witnesses standing close to the fire.

Anyone with any information about the incident, or who may have seen anyone acting suspiciously in the area should contact West Mercia Police on the non-emergency number 101 quoting incident no. 791s020714 or they can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

A Wychavon District Council spokesman, said: “We are deeply saddened by this fire and we urge anyone who might have any information about how it started to contact the police on their 101 number. Fortunately no one was hurt in the fire and of course the remainder of the Lido park is open to the public, as is the Lido pool and café.”