Fire at skate park near Horsham was ‘arson attack’

The fire was discovered at the skate park at Southwater Country Park just before 2.15 am today (Thursday August 13).

Horsham Station Commander Jim McGrath said: “Fortunately there were no casualties involved in this fire, but it is believed to have been started deliberately.

“We will be working closely with Sussex Police and Horsham District Council over the coming days as investigations are carried out.

“There have been a number of deliberate fires in the Horsham district in recent weeks, mainly in the open at public parks, woods and play areas.

“We would like to remind all residents of the dangers of starting a deliberate and unnecessary fire.

“Fortunately in this incident, there were no casualties impacted by this fire, but the skate park has sustained extensive damage.

“Next time the damage caused by a deliberate fire could be even more significant. Please do not play with fire, you cannot predict the consequences.”

He said that fire crews from Horsham and Haywards Heath had attended the Southwater blaze.

“Upon arrival they found the wooden structure well alight and began extinguishing the fire using two high pressure hose reels.

“Due to the location of the skate park, a water shuttle was put in place, and firefighters also used a fog nail and two electric saws to try and save as much of the structure as possible.

“Steady progress was made, and the fire was extinguished shortly before 4am. Firefighters remained at the scene and used a thermal imaging camera to ensure there were no further seats of fire.

“The fire managed to cause around 300 square metres of damage.”