A fire that destroyed a Wirral primary school's gazebo and could have ended in "unimaginable tragedy" was reportedly started by "children of primary school age".
Emergency services were called to Somerville Primary School on Northbrook Road in Wallasey at around 4.30pm on Monday to reports that a fire had broken out.
On arrival, firecrews found a wooden gazebo, approximately 4m x 4m and decking alight. The fire was contained and extinguished. Surrounding houses were also checked to ensure it did not spread.
No one was injured during the incident.
Picture by Jamie Lee Carter shows firecrews at Somerville Primary School on Monday
In a letter sent to nearby residents and seen by the Globe, the school explained what happened and that all CCTV footage had been sent to police for inclusion in their investigating.
The school said a number of children were still on site when the fire took place.
The letter reads: "Unfortunately, over the summer holidays, we have experienced two episodes of serious vandalism.
"Our CCTV system has recorded each episode and the footage has been passed over to the police.
"They are actively investigating these crimes due to the seriousness of the incidents and what the CCTV captured.
"One of the acts of vandalism involving a fire has caused tens of thousands of pounds worth of damage to the school grounds.
"Two fire engines had to put out the blaze and the fire service phoned the police due to it being arson.
"Sadly, it was children of primary school age who have shattered the windows and started the fire.
"They are entering the grounds just after the school has been closed for the day.
"The children were still on site in the outdoor classroom when the blaze took hold.
"This was very close to ending in unimaginable tragedy.
"Due to the fire brigade's quick response this prevented the fire spreading further and possibly over to resident properties.
"If you have any further information, please contact the police or email the school office with the heading 'vandalism information."
The letter ended: "We are strongly encouraging all residents that if they see anyone enter the school grounds to contact the police immediately or contact Wirrl Community Patrol.
"Anybody entering the grounds is trespassing and school will follow up as such."
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