A BLAZE in Southampton which destroyed a play park is being treated as arson, police have confirmed.

Hampshire Constabulary is now appealing for witnesses after the children’s play area in Daisy Dip was set alight on Wednesday evening.

"Following initial investigations carried out by the fire service, the cause of the fire is now being treated as suspicious," as spokesperson for the force said.

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Officers will now be carrying out regular patrols in the area.

At around 11pm last night, residents watched on in horror as the newly installed Daisy Dip playpark was engulfed by flames.

Using his own fire extinguisher, a local man attempted to tackle the fire best he could before help from Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service arrived.

Despite best efforts from locals and the emergency services, the castle-themed play park in Swaythling was destroyed.

Now officers keen to hear from anyone who may have any information that that could assist their investigation. 

Anyone with any information that may help is asked to phone us on 101 quoting reference 44210247562.

Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org