Appeal for information after vandals destroy Summerhill roundhouse

The roundhouse structure, which has been situated at the site for 15 years, was first vandalised late on Saturday evening (18 August) at approximately 7.30pm by five youths on bikes.

Staff and volunteers removed the roof attachments in order to ensure the structure was stable.

On Wednesday (22 August) at approximately 9.30pm, three youths on bikes visited Summerhill via Summerhill Lane, destroyed the roundhouse entrance and some posts securing the walls, and snapped the woven walls.

Police are aware and are investigating CCTV footage from both incidents, but staff at Summerhill are urging members of the public to come forward with any additional information they may have that could aid investigation.

Claire McDonald, from Summerhill Country Park and Visitor Centre, said: “It is with heavy hearts that the team have made the difficult decision to demolish the roundhouse.

“The structure had been an integral part of Summerhill for almost 15 years, and has served as an important educational tool for the children of Hartlepool. It is hoped that over the winter and spring, we can rebuild a bigger and better roundhouse for all of our visitors to enjoy.

“What is perhaps most sad to see is the time, hard work and dedication of our valued volunteers who worked together to build the roundhouse go to such unnecessary waste.”

Members of the public with any information are asked to contact the police directly by calling 101.

Summerhill Country Park and Visitor Centre, which is run by Hartlepool Borough Council, is a 100-acre site off Catcote Road offering a number of play and leisure facilities.