From the mouths of babes: This arsonist should be ashamed
People in Neath Hill were horrified when their community picnic bench was reduced to ashes last week.
A resident had donated the wooden bench to replace a children’s roundabout, which was removed from the tiny play area by the council for safety reasons last year.
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Hide Ad“We waited for them to replace the roundabout but they didn’t. So my neighbour put a nice bench in its place,” said 82-year-old Pauline Dempster.
The play area is opposite St Monica’s Catholic primary school, so is a popular venue for parents and children.
“They sit at the bench, have picnics and chat. Dog walkers also gather there. It’s become a real hub of the community,” said Pauline.
The arsonist struck overnight, and the next day the entire estate was upset.
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Hide AdOne child decided to leave a message. She wrote in chalk: ‘ I am so sad that someone set fire to the bench” and drew a tearful face.
The Citizen asked MK Council if it could replace the roundabout and provide a new bench too.
The council said there was no money in the budget for such items.
Do you have a bench, preferably fire proof, that you could donate to the good people of Neath Hill? Contact us if you can help.