Police in Southport discovered a deliberate fire set by a group of youths using tree branches, nitrous oxide, and aerosol canisters at Crossens Recreation Ground on Saturday evening, June 27. Officers from Sefton Police were conducting a routine patrol when they saw smoke billowing around a metal shelter.
Children fled the scene
When the children spotted the police car, a group of boys and girls ran across the recreation ground towards the exit at Poolside Walk and The Causeway. Officers approached the shelter and found that tree branches had been deliberately pulled off and used to start a substantial fire, along with nitrous oxide and aerosol canisters.
The police called Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service to extinguish the blaze before it could escalate further.
Police appeal for information
In a Facebook post, a spokesperson for Sefton Police said: “Tonight, (Saturday 27th June) we made a random patrol of Crossens Recreation Ground, as we often do. On this occasion, we found smoke billowing around the metal shelter and, on seeing the police car, a group of boys and girls ran off across the recreation ground towards the exit with Poolside Walk/The Causeway.
“We expected to find a portable BBQ or similar, but no. This group of children had spent time systematically pulling branches from a tree and finding other pieces of wood to set fire to them and start a substantial fire. Along with Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, we extinguished the fire before it got even worse.
“Worse still, a nitrous oxide cannister and an aerosol can were among the debris. Proving this fire was started intentionally. Let alone the mindless destruction of the trees.
“We should not have to explain how potentially dangerous this could have been, especially given the current weather, and we are keen to locate the children responsible.
“Their clothing will smell of the smoke from the fire. If you believe your children may be responsible, please do the right thing and contact us at the following email address, and we will get back to you. B.Community.hub.2@merseyside.pnn.police.uk
“Obviously, local residents should expect to see more patrols in the area, as a consequence.”
Increased patrols expected
The police warned that local residents should expect increased patrols in the area as a result of the incident. The fire was started deliberately, and the children responsible are being sought by authorities.
