An act of arson at a Seaton beauty spot destroyed two benches and spread to nearby plants and shrubbery.
Police have launched an investigation into a deliberate blaze at Cliff Field Gardens.
Officers have slammed the ‘wanton and puerile’ behaviour – and say they have evidence which could lead them to a suspect.
The fire service tackled the blaze on the evening of Wednesday, October 30.
A spokesperson for the Rural East Devon Police team said: “Cliff Field Gardens is a community area which is enjoyed by many residents and this wanton and puerile behaviour and criminality impacts far wider than the simple damage of property.
“Beyond this, arson presents a risk of spread and injury.
The aftermath of the blaze at Cliff Field Gardens in Seaton. Image: Rural East Devon Police
“Officers within Seaton are investigating an arson which occurred within Cliff Field Gardens in the late evening of Wednesday, October 30, 2024.
“Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue [Service] were called to the incident and extinguished a fire which had taken hold of two benches and spread to the surrounding plants and ornamental shrubbery.
“A report was submitted to Devon and Cornwall constabulary on October 31, 2024, and an investigation has commenced.
“At present we have a number of open lines of enquiry including evidence left at the scene, some of which is potentially attributable to an individual and we shall be pursuing this avenue.
“Whilst our enquiries proceed, we ask that if any member of the public has any information that might assist,that you contact us.”
Contact Devon and Cornwall Police via their website here or by calling 101 quoting reference number 50240276214.
Information can also be passed anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555111, or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
