Community space burnt to ground in arson attack

The shed, covered gazebo area and nearby crops have been reduced to ashes

A community has been left "heartbroken" after a special space used to support people with disabilities and mental illnesses was torched by arsonists.

Firefighters were called to the Earth Moves site in Wallasey, Wirral, at about 04:00 BST on Thursday.

The shed and gazebo at the former Telegraph Lane Market Gardens space is used by the community as a peaceful space to socialise and enjoy nature.

Co-founder of the project Paula Staunton said the arson attack would not "destroy" the area's community spirit.

'Refuse to lose hope'

Earth Moves said they had to cancel their upcoming free events, which included a gardening event and dance session.

Ms Staunton said: “This was a space built with love, for the community, by the community to allow a space for connecting to nature and each other.

“It's so sad that our work has been made harder by this event.

"Many vulnerable people are connected to our project, where we offer regular free events.

"We won't let this destroy our spirit. A community cannot be destroyed by burning down a building.”

The shed before it was burnt down

The shed, covered gazebo area and nearby crops have been reduced to ashes but a crowdfunding page has been set up to help restore the space.

Grants and donations helped build the shed, with the site "representing years of hard work and volunteer hours," an Earth Moves spokesman said.

“The destruction of our community shed leaves us grappling with questions of how someone could commit such an act," added Ms Staunton.

"The response we have had so far means we know we are doing good work, and this will continue.”

Merseyside Police are urging anyone with information to get in touch.