AN arson attack destroyed £30,000-worth of specialist furniture for the severely disabled in Fleetwood on Sunday (March 28) afternoon.

The attack, on Larkholme Lodge Day Centre for people with learning and physical disabilities, brought condemnation from manager Maurice Hickey.

Mr Hickey said: "This was mindless, you just wonder what kind of mentality we're breeding in people out there."

The attack happened at 3.35pm when the Larkholme Avenue centre, which is not used at weekends, was empty. Police said someone forced a window and pushed blazing material inside, destroying a section used by the most disabled of the 90 people who use the centre.

"All the furniture has to be made to suit an individual's physical disability," said Mr Hickey. "These people are the most vulnerable of our group. We will stay open regardless. We have to go on because the people who come here need day care and there isn't any alternative." He said it would take two or three months before the section could be re-opened.

"We believe there are a number of juveniles involved," said Sgt Paul Denney, "and we would like to hear from anyone who may have seen anything suspicious near the centre on Sunday."

A 17-year-old youth was being questioned this week. Anyone with information should call Sgt Andy Chambers on 01253 604378.

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