CHILDREN were heartbroken after arsonists destroyed their new play area.

The youngsters returned to school yesterday to find the £10,000 outdoor play facility at Stephenson Way Primary School, in Newton Aycliffe, had been wrecked.

Firefighters were called to the blaze by neighbours at about 5pm last Monday and although they put out the fire, they were unable the save any play equipment.

Pupils were enjoying half-term holiday last week and most only saw the charred remains for the first time yesterday.

Headteacher Barry Dobson said pupils were upset because the facility, which featured a climbing frame, slide, sand pit and playhouse, was only installed five months ago and they had only started to really enjoy it as the weather improved.

He said that, although the equipment was insured, it is not certain it will be replaced because the school feels vulnerable to future attacks.

Mr Dobson said: "The children have returned to school from half term and are devastated to see their play area is ruined.

"The climbing frame is completely burned and the plastic caterpillar is partly destroyed.

"Summer is here now and they will have nowhere to play at breaktime. It is such a mindless crime and I am very annoyed.

"The climbing frame cost around £10,000 and was bought out of the school budget, so once that money is spent, it is spent."

Mr Dobson said the climbing frame was a valuable addition to the school because it encouraged youngsters to play outside and use their imagination, and aided physical and social development.

He added: "The youngest children absolutely loved it and the value to them was much more than £10,000. It made playing and working so much fun.

"It was a fantastic piece of multi-purpose equipment and we'd already seen their confidence and motor skills improve from climbing up the frame and sliding back down it."

Police said three local boys, all aged 12 years old, have been arrested on suspicion of arson.

They were interviewed and released on bail until next month.