Torched nature reserve pond feature restored

The "dipping platform" was torched by arsonists in August

A "dipping platform" at a nature reserve which was destroyed in an arson attack has been restored.

The jetty at Joe's Pond at Rainton Meadows Nature Reserve was used by children to dip their nets into the water, according to the Durham Wildlife Trust (DWT).

It was set on fire on 7 August and could not be used by children during the school holidays.

The platform has been rebuilt following a £1,500 donation from a local contractor and £600 from members of the public.

At the time DWT's operations manager Wesley Selkridge said "the needless destruction" of the feature was "upsetting."

He added that the jetty helped children engage with nature.

The destruction of the platform meant it could not be used during the summer holidays

The pond had previously been a clay pit used for brickworks and was named Joe's Pond after its former caretaker Joe Wilson.

“Joe had done such a good job that the pond was designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) shortly after the trust took over the site," a spokeswoman for the trust said.

"The area really is a shining example of how, given time, nature can return and thrive despite the scars of industry."

The money to restore the jetty was donated by the public and Bowburn-based contractors Esh.