A MEMORIAL bench is one of nine that have been destroyed in arson attacks at a park over the past seven months.
West Yorkshire Police and West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service has launched an appeal for information regarding "deliberate fire activity" at a park in West Yorkshire, that has been ongoing since the end of March.
The attacks have happened at Friarwood Valley Gardens, in Mayors Walk, Pontefract, Wakefield.
West Yorkshire Police said on its Community Alerts website: "The Friends of Friarwood Valley Gardens have reported a significant increase in the acts of arson and vandalism including the destruction of memorial benches and waste bins.
"Since March 27, 2024, the number of benches destroyed through arson has risen to a staggering 9."
The force shared pictures alongside the appeal, which included the burnt remnants of a memorial bench, and another bench that was engulfed in a ferocious fire.
West Yorkshire Police said: "This senseless vandalism is not only costly but also disheartening for the community who rely on these public spaces for recreation and enjoyment."
The Experience Wakefield website describes Friarwood Valley Gardens as "an oasis of calm in the bustling streets of Pontefract town centre, laid out as a park in the mid-20th century".
If you have any information that will help to tackle these issues and assist in police and fire's ongoing investigations you can ring 101, or email your local neighbourhood police team on: Pontefract@westyorkshire.police.uk
Alternatively, you can get in touch with independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously online or on: 0800 555 111.
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