Repairs yet to be carried out at arson-hit beauty spot near Chesterfield

In a crime which appalled residents, young arsonists struck at the Avenue Washlands in Wingerworth on June 5.

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Kate Lemon, regional manager for Derbyshire Wildlife Trust (DWT), confirmed that 40m of boardwalk, fishing platforms and fencing were destroyed.

She said: “The damage caused is considerable and is estimated to cost around £15,000 to repair.”

DWT volunteers launched an online fundraising appeal to help rebuild the site.

It started with a goal of £1,000 and has so far brought in more than £5,000.

Last month, Derbyshire Constabulary revealed three teenagers had been referred to the Derbyshire Youth Offending Service after the arson attack.

A spokesperson for Derbyshire County Council, which is responsible for the service, said it works young people involved in offences ‘to seek to prevent them from committing crimes in the future’.

MORE: Police issue update on teenagers responsible for arson attack at Chesterfield beauty spot

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