A SOUTHAMPTON community has rallied together after a play park was destroyed in two suspected arson attacks in just one month.

The Daisy Dip play area is now a charred wreck after being engulfed in fire.

Huge flames leapt into the air at the park off Bluebell Road on Saturday night.

Firefighters raced to the scene as smoke billowed across the Flowers Estate.

A climbing frame was damaged during a similar incident on June 23.

Police have since launched an arson investigation.

A statement from the Friends of Daisy Dip community group said: “We are beyond gutted to see the play park destroyed again over the weekend. We feel sad, angry, tired. But we have always worked hard as a group with one reason in mind; for the good of our community. We are continually blown away by the strength, unity and good spirit of our community and recognise that the overwhelming majority of us want Daisy Dip and the surrounding area to be a place that we can be proud of and enjoy together. That is why we will not give up or give in, we will continue to work as a group with the whole community to make sure that Daisy Dip, including the play area, is a safe, fun place.”

A spokesperson for the group added: “For those who did this - we would love them to come forward or for those with information about who might have done this to go to the police. More than anything, we’d love to be able to work with the whole community, including those who are harder to engage with and ensure the Dip meets everyone’s needs - if people have ideas as to what might make it a better place for everyone, we’d encourage them to get in touch and get involved.”

Anyone with information that could help police is urged to call 101 quoting 44210272408.