A CHARITY bank has been damaged in a fire after being the target of an arson attack on Sunday (November 28), according to Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council.

They posted on social media, informing residents that The Salvation Army charity bank at Stratton Park in Basingstoke has been the target of arson and is now fire damaged.

They said the bank will be removed by the charity in the next 48 hours.

A spokesperson from Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, said: “The Salvation Army charity bank at Stratton Park has been the target of arson over the weekend, and is now fire damaged.

“The bank will be removed by the charity in the next 48 hours.

“We have previously removed all other banks from Stratton Park because of similar incidents. Residents can find alternative recycling facilities by going to our website: https://www.basingstoke.gov.uk/recycling-sites"

A spokesperson from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, said: "Basingstoke firefighters were called to Stratton Park just before midnight (23:51) on Sunday 28 November.

"On arrival crews found a charity collection bin well alight. A high pressure hose reel was used to extinguish the fire before the stop message came in at 00:07."

The Gazette previously reported that the Stratton Park recycling bank, next to Kempshott Village Hall had been destroyed on Thursday, June 26.

It was suggested the incident was also arson, following "similar" instances of "mindless vandalism" at the park last summer.