Arson attack at The Valley Project, Holme Wood, being probed

Firefighters were called to The Valley Project, on Stirling Crescent, Holme Wood, at around 3.20am today, where a double-decker bus was ablaze. Police are treating the fire as arson.

The bus was donated to the project earlier this year and there were plans to use it as an indoor space over the winter months.

Firefighters at the scene following the blaze

The Valley Project aims to tackle inequalities and social isolation faced by children and young people growing up on the Holme Wood estate. 

Despite the setback, the project is determined to stay positive and start the clean-up.

Laura Bowen told the Telegraph & Argus: “Obviously it’s very upsetting.

“We are trying to be positive. Our attitude is very much about getting things cleaned up and getting back open again. We are not going to let it get us down.

The bus, which was donated, was destroyed by the fire

“We are just devastated for the children as they really love the bus.”

She said people had woken up to the news and had been offering help and support. A JustGiving page is already gathering pace, with more than £1,000 already raised.

Laura added: “Our main thing is just keeping as positive as we can and not letting it affect the project in the long-term.

Police are now investigating the arson attack

“We always find a positive. We are here for these kids, and we want them to not feel worried that there’s any jeopardy to The Valley Project.

“We are here and whatever happens, we’ll make it work.”

There has been a huge outpouring of support and a JustGiving page has already raised more than £1,000

Councillor Matt Edwards (Greens, Tong) said he was heartbroken at the news.

“The Valley Project do such amazing work for the kids on Holme Wood and to think someone would do this absolutely blows my mind,” he said.

"Not only has it cost a charity thousands of pounds, but it means kids - kids the perpetrators probably know - won't have anywhere to go on this last week of the summer holidays.”

He said a lot of work had gone into getting the bus and putting together plans to turn into a space for the young people who attend The Valley Project.

Firefighters were called out in the early hours of the morning

“In a few minutes that has all been ruined,” he said.

"If anyone has any information to help the police find who did this, please contact 101.

“You aren't doing anyone any favours if you are protecting someone who would sink so low they would set fire to a kids playground."

Bradford South MP Judith Cummins added: "The Valley Project is a wonderful resource for young people to play and learn right in the heart of Holme Wood and the project makes a huge difference in the area.

"Images of the damage of the fire from last night are simply heart-wrenching. This is senseless vandalism and the only ones that lose out are the young people which The Valley Project does such good work with.

"I have contacted the Valley Project team today to offer my support and I have been in contact with West Yorkshire Police about the incident.

"I encourage anyone with information to contact West Yorkshire Police."

A West Yorkshire Police spokesperson said: “We are investigating an arson at The Valley Project in the early hours of this morning.

“Enquiries are ongoing.

“Any witnesses to 101 or the LiveChat facility at www.westyorkshire.police.uk/contactus  quoting crime reference 13220479208.”

Want to keep up with all the latest court and crime news? Join our Bradford Crime & Breaking News Facebook group

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to keep up with all the latest news.

Have you got a story for us? Email newsdesk@telegraphandargus.co.uk or contact us here, WhatsApp us on 07720 403052 or call us on 01274 705292.