Vile firebugs torch cherished playhouse

The firebugs struck at the Early Days Playgroup on Moss Side Way, Leyland on Monday.

The playhouse was given to the nursery by the husband of a former worker who died of cancer.

Grandmother Julie Armstrong, 61, who has run the playgroup for the last 30 years, described the culprits as “vile” but said she had been deeply touched by the kind support shown to her from people offering help through social media.

“It’s been destroyed along with a few other things as well,” said Julie, who lives nearby, off Dunkirk Drive in Leyland.

“The house was donated by the husband of a lady who worked for me, Susan, who died of cancer over four years ago. This house was a memorial house. That’s hurtful, it’s been destroyed. They’re just vile individuals with no respect for anything at all.”

Julie said lots of people had sent message of help and support – including the nearby Leyland Warriors amateur rugby league club, which itself suffered an arson attack in May.

Another reassuring voice was her grand daughter, two year-old Darcy McCartney’s. The youngster said: “Don’t worry, grandma, it will be fine!”

Lancashire Police said their investigation was ongoing.

The incident happened on Monday night.