THE burning of the pavillion in Arborfield Park has been described as “mindless” by a councillor.
It was burned down on Saturday, May 21, and Thames Valley Police is treating the incident as arson.
Cllr Gary Cowan, independent councillor for Arborfield, said: “I am appalled by the mindless vandalism from these arsonists.
“The parish council works really hard to put facilities for all to use and enjoy and for people to torch it makes absolutely no sense whatsoever as they are just destroying something that they themselves could use.
“Criminal damage is becoming an epidemic and my big worry it will lead to more serious incidents. The police have a big role to play in stopping this mindless vandalism and arson before someone is seriously hurt or worse.”
Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service were called to extinguish the blaze on Swallowfield Road on Saturday evening.
The fire charred the stand, seating area and covered the floor with ash making it unusable.
A spokesperson for Thames Valley Police said: “We are treating the incident as arson and are carrying out a number of enquiries, including taking statements from a number of witnesses.”