DROITWICH residents and a town estate agents have been praised for the way they have rallied round after the fire which devastated the play area in the Lido Park.
Following the incident, which we reported on our website yesterday morning and on the front page of today’s paper, a fund-raising campaign was started by Matt Nicol of Nicol and Co.
And now, in just over 24 hours, more than £7,000 has already been raised to buy replacement equipment.
Matt said: “We’ve all been past the Lido Park play area or used it with our children at some point.
“It’s important to the local area and therefore important to us.”
Wychavon District Council has insurance in place to cover the damage, but it is hoped the cash raised by the campaign could enhance the park further.
The council will be working with Matt to decide how the money can be best-used.
“We want to raise as much money as we can locally to help the council replace and improve the park – and hopefully with enough money raised it will be open again in time for the summer holidays.” added Matt.
Phil Merrick, head of community services at Wychavon District Council, said the authority had been totally overwhelmed by the public’s response after the fire.
“Our moods yesterday morning were pretty down after seeing the damage to the play area and especially knowing that it was deliberately done.
“But the campaign and the public reaction have really lifted our spirits.
“The donations are great and the comments are very inspiring – they’ve helped to lift our resolve.
“We thank everyone who is involved with this campaign and all those kind and generous people who have donated their money.”
He added that, in the meantime, the rest of the Lido Park was open as usual for everyone to enjoy, along with the Lido pool and cafe.
Visit www.justgiving.com/yimby/LidoPark for more on the fund-raising campaign or to donate.
Anyone with any information should call police on 101.
