VOLUNTEERS who have worked tirelessly for more than ten years to restore the gardens and woodland surrounding Guisborough’s ancient priory suffered a huge set back after a suspected arson attack.

Members of the Gisborough Priory Project have been left devastated by last week’s attack on a steel container used to store their tools and equipment which caused £10,000 worth of damage.

The fire, which is believed to have been set at around 6pm on Monday, February 10, quickly took hold and destroyed the floor of the container and all the contents, leaving just pieces of twisted charred metal.

Board member, Jenny Thomas said: “Our next door neighbour came out and saw something, but thought that it was us.

"We discovered the fire damage on Thursday morning when we came to do some work. We are absolutely devastated. This is ten years of hard work and fund-raising gone up in flames.”

As a result the volunteers are calling on local businesses and people to help to replace the damaged goods.

Carole Robinson, a fellow board member, said: “We have the annual Snowdrop Walk on Sunday (February 23) with coffee mornings and spring flowers and we use the proceeds for this year’s fund-raising to replace tools and everything.

"We are appealing to anyone, local people, businesses and individuals with spare tools, gazebos, catering equipment, display units, shelving etc., to get in touch with us.”

Cleveland Police confirmed that they are treating the attack as arson and anybody with information should contact PC Carl Drinkel by calling 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800-555111.

Offers to replace or donate any items should be made by calling Ms Thomas on 07817-717588.