AN ARSON attack at the scout hut in Old Deer Car Park, Richmond, has ravaged a hall that volunteers had decorated only that day.

The blaze started on February 20 at 9.07pm; the room where it took hold was ruined and the rest of the scout hut suffered from smoke damage.

A spokesperson for Twickenham Police Station said a window was smashed and flammable liquid was poured through causing about £3,000 worth of damage.

A 46-year-old man gave himself up the following day and was charged with the offence.

Georgette Clarke, cub scout leader of North Richmond, Continued on page 2 From page one said: "Volunteers were working really hard to get the room finished in time for when the kids come in and now they have to start again.

"The fire was dealt with before there was any major structural damage but there was an enormous amount of smoke to the hall and possible damage to the equipment.

"We need time now to do a lot of cleaning and there is a lot of smell.

"This is right in the centre of Richmond providing a safe environment for people in the area. People don't realise what effect this could have. The cleaning and decorating is to be done by volunteers.

"We are providing activities for over 50 young people. Now we have got this incredible amount of work to do.

"The knock on effect for the kids of Richmond is phenomenal."

The fire brigade managed to get the fire under control at 2126 and only required the use of one hose.

Volunteers willing to help to reconstruct the building should contact group scout leader Barry Baker on 020 8390 5167.