MINDLESS arsonists have torched children’s play equipment in a park, leaving a molten mess in their wake.

The vandals set alight a playground ride for youngsters at a popular Green Flag park in Shoebury Park, meaning the taxpayer will have to foot the estimated £15,000 bill to fully replace the damaged equipment.

The damage happened sometime on Tuesday and Essex County Fire and Rescue attended the scene to extinguish the blaze.

The cause of fire is believed to be from the vandals’ obtaining a number of disposable barbecues and using the easy-light charcoal to ignite the flames.

The council has assured the community that the play park will remain open, with the damaged equipment being fenced off whilst the replacement is arranged.

Scott Dolling, director of culture, tourism and property at the council, said: “This mindless act of vandalism is very disappointing and we as a council, and more importantly the local taxpayer, are now left to pay for an individual or group’s totally unacceptable behaviour.

“The parks team work extremely hard all year round to create a welcoming and attractive place for residents and visitors alike to relax and bring their children to.

“Acts like this tarnish the local area and spoil the enjoyment of others.

“We urge anyone with information to contact Essex Police on 101 so that they can catch those responsible and bring them to justice.”

The community has been left reeling from the destruction which has left part of the park fenced off.

Caroline Grimwood, 33, from Great Wakering, said: “I drive from Great Wakering to Shoebury to visit this park with my son but we will not be going now for a while because it is his favourite park and I wouldn’t want him to see it like that.

“We will now have to find another park to visit because of the incident.

“I think it is a big shame that this has happened to such a lovely park and I don’t understand why people would want to do it.”

Catherine Salmon, 31, from Shoebury said: “I went to visit the park yesterday with my son and we found it had been vandalised.

“I think that its disgusting and that these people who have done this are just nasty. We go there often as it’s a lovely park.”

Shoebury Park is a Green Flag park and in November 2014 the council replaced the former outdated play area with a new, £160,000 play area.

It was complete with a host of equipment, including a zip-wire, roundabout and climbing frame.

Since the new play area was installed, it has become a popular attraction with local families and visitors.

Anyone with information regarding the arson attack is urged to contact Essex Police on 101.