ARSONISTS torched a playground’s equipment causing £20,000 worth of damage.

Police and firefighters were called to the play area on the Solus and Quarters estates, in James Parnell Drive, Colchester.

The slide had melted, a shelter was burnt out and the sprung flooring was bubbling.

Dave Harris, councillor for Berechurch, is offering a £100 reward for information leading to the conviction of the culprits.

He said: “There have been problems before, but nothing as bad as this.

“I would have given my right arm for a play area like that when I was young.

“Now some little morons have done this.

“It was well used. We had a family day there with 200 people having fun a few weeks ago. You don’t expect this.”

The playground has been cordoned off and could takemonths to repair.

Amember of the public called the police and fire service on Friday at 10.30pm.

Firefighters put out the blaze in 16 minutes, but the equipment is beyond repair.

Mr Harris said: “The council is insured and the equipment will be replaced, but we will have to wait. I really don’t know what these moronic vandals get out of this.”

Colchester MP Sir Bob Russell said: “Vandalism is unacceptable.

Not only is this a huge cost to replace the play equipment, but it also takes away welcome facilities used by young children.”

Anyone with information can call Colchester police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.