AN ACT of vandalism was turned into a memorable experience for a group of young disabled people.

Members of Access Dorset's Horizons project had been left shocked after a donated boat they were renovating was destroyed in a suspected arson attack.

However, after an overwhelming response to raise funds for the project, the group were able to travel out on a fishing trip on a charter boat.

Excess funds from the page have also been invested into building a metal workshop, so the members, who all have autism and Asperger’s syndrome, can develop their carpentry, gardening and bicycle renovation skills.

Once complete the workshop is set to be named after John Scott, whose boat was kindly gifted to the charity by his wife Jean, before it was subjected to the mindless vandalism.

This personal aspect of the boat made its destruction even more upsetting for the organisation.