Shock after bin blaze at community centre
Coun Karen Renshaw
An arson attack at a popular community centre in East Ardsley has been condemned by local councillors and community organisers.
Coun Karen Renshaw and volunteers have described their shock and horror when they were told about the fire at the St Gabriel’s Community and Youth Centre.
A refuse bin at the centre was set alight and it was fortunate that a local resident noticed the flames.
Firefighters were called and they put out the fire before any major damage was caused.
The fire in the bin, located next to houses, could have put lives at risk, Coun Renshaw is claiming. She said the fire could have also threatened the much loved community centre where extensive renovation works are currently underway.
She is now urging anyone with any information relating to the fire to contact the police.
She said: “It’s horrifying to think what the consequences could have been.
“The centre is used by people of all ages who are working hard to improve the building and make this venue more inviting to all.
“My thanks and appreciation go to the residents who spotted the fire and to the fire service for their prompt response.”
Susan Volante, chair of St Gabriel’s Community Group, said: “We have worked very hard to improve St Gabriel’s Community and Youth Centre to ensure it continues to be the vital community hub it currently is.
“We have put on several fundraising events to raise the necessary money to renovate the centre.
“ It is a shame that some people do not value the Centre or the safety of nearby residents and are prepared to carry out such a careless act of vandalism.”
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Weather for Leeds,Yorkshire
Wednesday 22 May 2013
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 4 C to 15 C
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