A nursery is overwhelmed with community donations after a fire destroyed hundreds of pounds worth of children’s toys and equipment.

Police say a fire that was “dangerously out of control” broke out at Windsor Hall Pre-School at Blyth Close off Leeming Road, Borehamwood.

The fire last Sunday (March 27) started at a storage shed and spread to scaffolding.

While nobody was injured, the nursery lost resources that were built up over six years.

Officers investigated the site on Monday as it remained closed off for the day, and since then Windsor Hall was met with many people coming together to help cover some of the lost items.

 

People have donated items to help cover the cost of damages

People have donated items to help cover the cost of damages

 

Nursery manager Jessica Breakwell: “We have been so blessed by the response – people have donated so much and we are so grateful. This has impacted 30 children and we want the person who has done this to fully understand the damage they have caused.”

There are still many things that need replacing, including many toys, sports equipment, a seesaw, rugs, scooters, bikes, musical instruments and costumes.

Any donations should be taken to Windsor Hall, Blyth Close, Gateshead Road, Borehamwood, WD65EE.

 

The nursery was closed off on Monday

The nursery was closed off on Monday

 

Meanwhile police continue to investigate the arson and has called for anyone with information to come forward.

Detective Constable Ben Nash said he believes “a number of people” were in the area at the time and were taking photos on their phones.

 

People have donated items to help cover the cost of damages

People have donated items to help cover the cost of damages

 

He said: “Thankfully the pre-school was closed at the time and nobody was injured. However, hundreds of pounds worth of the children’s toys were destroyed.

“The fire was dangerously out of control, spreading to nearby scaffolding.”

He continued: “If you were there and have not yet spoken to police, I urge you to get in touch as soon as possible as you could have important information for us.”

Any witnesses are asked to contact police by either emailing ben.nash@herts.police.uk or visiting herts.police.uk/report or calling 101 quoting 41/24480/22.

Alternatively contact anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.