A YOUNGSTERS’ football club has had their changing hut destroyed by arsonists.

Several Weymouth Cougars teams use the hut at the Marsh playing Field to store equipment and for changing before and after games.

Police in Weymouth are appealing for witnesses and anyone with information to come forward after the malicious fire.

The incident, in which a groundsman’s hut, changing rooms and storage area were set alight, happened at around 12.20am on Wednesday in a car park at Marsh playing fields in Knightsdale Road.

The fire was started by offenders igniting an accelerant between the port-a-cabin and the wooden building close by, causing them both to set alight. The port-a-cabin and its contents were completely destroyed by the fire and the adjacent building suffered severe damage.

Police Constable Neil Fitch, of Weymouth police, said: “It is very fortunate no one was injured in this fire, the consequences could have been far worse.

“I am keen to talk to three male teenagers who were seen leaving the car park when the fire service arrived. They may be witnesses and have information that can assist with the investigation. I urge them to come forward.

“Anyone who saw any suspicious activity in the area at the time is asked to contact the police on 101 as soon as possible.

“All calls are treated in the strictest confidence.”

Councillor Ian Bruce, Community Facilities Briefholder at Weymouth & Portland Borough Council, said: “This fire has damaged a valuable facility, which is particularly used by young people in our community. It is senseless and I hope anyone with any information contacts the police immediately. The borough council is temporarily storing the goals, nets and other football equipment.”

No one has been arrested.

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101 quoting incident number 17:09. Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.