Arsonists cause £20,000 damage to Ponteland Park boardwalk

Northumbria Police said the damage would cost £20,000 to repair

Arsonists have caused £20,000 of damage to a park boardwalk.

Vandals set the wooden jetty and walkway in Ponteland Park alight sometime between 12:30 BST and 13:20 on Monday.

Northumbria Police said the damage was "so severe" a section of park has had to be closed.

Insp Garry Neill said it was "incredibly disappointing" and the force was "committed" to finding those responsible.

He said: "The mindless actions of a few have resulted in significant damage and their selfish behaviour now means that a section of the park cannot be enjoyed by families during the summer holidays."

Graeme Wright of Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service said 75% of outdoor fires crews attend are started deliberately which "directs our time and resources away from attending more serious incidents should they occur".