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13
Aug
Toilets rapidly replaced after arson attack at Ripon playground
Ripon City Council's rapid response has ensured that the actions of arsonists won't spoil the summer fun for families visiting Borrage Green Play Area.
Two portable toilets that were deliberately burnt to the ground late on Saturday night were replaced this morning, much to the delight of parents, grandparents and young children.
Mum of two Sarah, who was visiting the playground with her nine-year-old daughter Alex and six-year-old son Jack, told the Stray Ferret:
We've been coming here every day and it was shocking to see what the vandals did, but good to see that replacement toilets have been installed so quickly.
Also responding swiftly were Jill and Matthew Holt, who live close to the play area and are owners of the business Holt Storage Systems Limited.
Mr Holt, said:
We were absolutely appalled to see what happened here on Saturday night and decided that we must to do something to show the vandals that they can't win, so we contacted the council with the offer of financial assistance to help off-set the cost of replacing the toilets.
We hope that other businesses might consider doing the same.
The charred remains of the two portable toilets attacked by arsonists on Saturday night.
Mr and Ms Holt's payment towards the cost of replacing the toilets will be part of a £5,000 sponsorship that they have agreed to make over the next three years to enable the city council to arrange additional family-focused activities, that can be enjoyed free of charge.
Council leader Andrew Williams said:
The generosity that Jill and Matthew have shown in response to Saturday night's unpleasant incident is remarkable and goes to show that good can come out of an unfortunate situation.
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