Vandals have attacked a children's playground in Ramsgate, causing nearly £30,000 of damage.

The pirate ship at Ellington Park was only installed two years ago but was badly damaged in the arson attack on Thursday.

Now Thanet council says it will be unable to pay for a replacement, unless its insurance company pays out.

Cllr Iris Johnston, who is responsible for community services at the council, said: "It's heartbreaking and I can imagine that the parents of the young children who use this area must be devastated. Why on earth would someone do something like this?

"I know how popular this was with the local community and I understand that children loved playing on this ship.

"Now that's been taken away from them by a mindless act of vandalism."

Ms Johnston added: "I hope those responsible will think about how much they've cost the community."

Last week's fire is the latest in a string of acts of vandalism in Thanet.

In January, public toilets in Margate were set alight, taking them out of action for more than a week.

Toilets in Minnis Bay were attacked twice in two days last August, a week before loos in West Bay were targeted.

Anyone with information about the fire is asked to contact Kent Police on 101, quoting reference number ZY/6555/12. Alternatively, call Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.