At approximately 5pm yesterday, the Fire Service had to be called to a fire at the rear of Parrs Wood. Thanks to swift actions, it was extinguished quickly. This incident involved approximately 20m x 10m of hedge, trees and grass on fire. Crews used 1 hose reel jet, buckets of water and knapsack sprayer to extinguish the fire.

This wanton destruction could have easily escalated given its proximity to properties and we are pleased no one was hurt. Anti-social and criminal behaviour is escalating over the Summer so having spoken to the Fire Service this morning we have now reported this to the police as a crime and we hope they will take action to identify the culprit(s).

In the last few months fences and gates have been damaged, the fence surrounding the toddler section of Long Meadow has also been wilfully damaged. We frequently find attempted “camp fires” within the woods.

The outcome of this is that your council tax money is being used to make repairs, taking funds and staff time that should be spent improving our facilities. We may have no choice next year but to raise your precept if the likelihood is that these behaviours don’t stop.

Please let the Parish Council know if you see anything happening that shouldn’t be, you can do so confidentially on 01743 874651 or contact the police.