‘BITTER and twisted’ arsonists have continued to target parks in the north east of Warrington.

Several more fires have been started at Peel Hall Park in recent weeks, including one which targeted the boardwalk near the pond again on the evening of May 16.

Police have appealed for information over the incident, which involved a wheelie bin being set alight on the wooden bridge – causing ‘significant damage’.

Former Mayor of Warrington Cllr Settle, a passionate campaigner for the preservation of parks in the area, said: “Recently Warrington Borough Council did a great job of repairing the burnt section of the wooden bridge in Peel Hall Park.

“Unperturbed, it looks like the arsonists have returned to try and destroy the repaired bridge.

“They didn't succeed, but the damage was even greater and once more has put the bridge out of action.

"This is a crazy thing done by bitter and twisted people, especially during a serious pandemic when people are dying and our key workers should be directing their energy and resources elsewhere.

“These callous individuals and their actions are preventing the rest of the community from enjoying the fresh air of the park's surroundings.

The council has begun its latest efforts to repair the pathway.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Cheshire Police on 101, quoting incident number 2000286219.