PART of a town play area has been fenced off after it was torched by vandals last week.

The search is now on for witnesses to the incident which took place at the Cornwall Road play area in Eastleigh on Thursday.

The fire service were called to the incident at around 6pm after a piece of play equipment was set alight.

It is said that a trampoline was involved and was "fully destroyed" in the blaze. 

Fire crews used one hose reel to extinguish the fire. 

The area was then cordoned off before crews alerted Eastleigh Borough Council. 

Now the council has fenced off the equipment as it is "unsafe to use".

It is expected to be shut off until repairs have taken place or until a replacement can be put in but the rest of the play area remains open.

The council has now asked anyone who saw what happened or who has any information to come forward.

Video by: Hannah Siddall.

A Council spokesperson described the incident as a “mindless act of vandalism that has ruined part of this popular play area.".

They added: "It will also mean a significant repair bill for local taxpayers. I would strongly urge anyone who witnessed or has any information about this incident to please contact the Police on 101 or contact the Council on 023 8068 8000.”

The vandalism comes less than a year after the play area underwent refurbishments to repair the old safety surfacing.

Hampshire Constabulary has been approached for comment.