Police officers were called to reports of a fire in the children’s play area at Alexandra Park in Parkstone at around 2.20am on Sunday 23 January.

The fire caused substantial damage to the play equipment and it is suspected that the blaze was started deliberately.

Police Constable Demar Rowe, of Poole police, said: “This play park is used by so many children and unfortunately it will now be closed for some time while it is repaired.

“I am appealing to anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the area, or knows who was responsible for this mindless damage, to please contact Dorset Police.

“We have received reports that four people were seen to leave the park shortly after the incident and I would please ask anyone with home CCTV systems in that area to please check their footage and contact us if they find anything that may assist our investigation.

“Officers from the local neighbourhood policing team are aware of the incident and can be approached with any concerns.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk/do-it-online, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55220013278. Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call Freephone 0800 555 111.