A lengthy police investigation has taken place after a large climbing frame was set alight at a playground in a Bracknell recreation ground.

Thames Valley Police were called to Jocks Lane playground on December 1 when the playground equipment was spotted on fire by local residents.

Vandals had entered the play area and set the climbing frame ablaze.

Following the police investigation and insurance process, new equipment has been applied for by Bracknell Town Council.

Bracknell Town Council said: ”[We] are now in the 16-week lead time for new equipment to be manufactured.

“We are trying as hard as possible to install this new equipment by the end of March, but we are reliant on lead times and, unfortunately, when vandalism happens, we have processes to follow.”

The council has asked residents to be patient as they get it up and running as soon as they can. 

A spokesperson from Thames Valley Police said: “We received a report from Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service of an arson at Jocks Lane Park on Binfield Road, Bracknell, at around 6.45pm on 1 December last year.

“The children’s play park had been set on fire, causing a lot of damage.

“Following an investigation, the report was filed pending further information coming to light.

“Anyone with further information should call 101 or make a report on our website, quoting reference number 43230540664.”