Yobs have damaged a playground for youngsters by starting a fire.

On the hottest day of the year, a concerned mum said teenagers set fire to the children's play area on the Davis Estate in Medway.

The mother-of-two, who did not want to be named, said: "Teenagers have become more problematic in the play areas both on Davis Estate and in the Horsted Park development. But this latest behaviour is disgraceful.

"Something needs to be done to control these teenagers from drinking, smoking, taking drugs and setting fires."

She said two fires in recent weeks had destroyed fields in Horsted Valley and yesterday firefighters were called to two more incidents.

The mum said: "One was in the fields and one was in a children’s play area in Vale Drive. Luckily none of the equipment was damaged but youngsters won't be able to play there because all the grass is scorched. This is devastating for small children."

She added: "I know it is tough for teenagers these days and they want to be out with their mates. But they really must stop setting fire to things. I saw them videoing it and then running off.

"These fires could easily get out of control during this hot weather when everything is so dry.

"The fire brigade spent nearly two hours at the play area beating the flames out and covering it with water when they could probably have been somewhere else. It is just so sad.

"The fires also damage wildlife and make it difficult for dog-walkers. Some of these teenagers can appear quite intimidating. They look about 15 to 16."

Police and fire have been asked for a comment.

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