AN arson investigation has been launched after £2,000 worth of damage was caused to a play park in Christchurch.

The incident happened around 7.25pm on Tuesday, February 14 at a park in The Quomps in Wick Lane.

A children’s play boat was set deliberately on fire causing approximately £2,000 worth of damage. Nobody was injured in the incident.

Police Constable Matt Leeding, of Christchurch police, said: “This play park is really popular among local families and it is disgusting that someone has decided to damage it in this way.”

Police are now appealing for witnesses to get in touch.

According to the Christchurch Quay and Splashpark Facebook page, there have been a number of vandalism incidents at the parks recently and people are being urged to report any acts of vandalism.

Anyone with information should call Dorset Police on 101, quoting occurrence number 55170024381.