THE local community has pulled together after the ‘devastating’ arson attack that ripped through the changing rooms and outside area of Forest Community Centre in Melksham last Friday, 23rd February, around 6pm.
The damage to the centre, which is off Bowmans Court, Forest, has meant many activities, including the youth football teams and Sunday league teams, have had to stop due to the lack of changing facilities and toilets.
Wiltshire Police have arrested and charged a 16-year-old and a 15-year-old boy over the attack, who were due to appear at Salisbury Youth Court on Monday.
Chairman of the centre committee and Forest ward town councillor, Jack Oatley said, “First and foremost, we would like to thank the members of the public for making the call to the fire service. We are extremely grateful for the swift response from Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Service; their response undoubtedly minimised the extent of the damage. Thankfully, no one was injured, however the fire had caused significant damage to the changing room side of the community centre, including external damage.
“This has caused a massive impact on the committee, our users, and the community. We would like to thank everyone for their support and concern during the incident on Friday night.”
Forest Youth Football Club has set up a gofundme page to raise funds for the clear-up operation, repairs and providing temporary facilities to enable the youth teams to continue to play.
Businesses have also offered support to the community, including The Grapes which is running a raffle to raise funds. Rigg Construction Southern Ltd, based in Bowerhill, made the area safe following the blaze, so that the centre can still be used.
“We are extremely overwhelmed by the support of those who have reached out; your kindness and solidarity during this unfortunate time are a true testament to the strength of the community,” explained Jack. “We can’t thank you all enough.
“A long process now starts to repair the building and we hope to have the centre operational the best that we can. We will provide updates as soon as they become available and we welcome any input or suggestions.
“As always, I would like to thank the committee members who volunteer their time to make the centre operational; without your support and ongoing commitment, in particular to Tina and Sara, the centre wouldn’t be what it is.”
Wiltshire Police have arrested and charged a 16-year-old and a 15-year-old boy over the attack, who were due to appear at Salisbury Youth Court on Monday 26th February.
A spokesperson for Wiltshire Police said, “A 14-year-old girl was also arrested and has been released on police bail.”
To support the Forest community to restore their community centre, visit the gofundme page visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/forest-youth?utm_campaign=p_lico+share-sheet-first-launch&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=customer
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