A FAIRGROUND owner has spoken of his dismay after one of his rides was deliberately torched.

Fire crews were called to the old band arena site on Morecambe promenade where the cab of the Paratrooper ride was ablaze in the early hours on Sunday.

Kenny Standcliffe, who has operated the Fun And Leisure fairground business in Morecambe for 24 years, says nothing like it has ever happened before.

“It is totally malicious and all the time we are closed down we are going to lose money. It was a massive shock – I was devastated when I came to work and found there was nothing left,” he told the Citizen.

He is now looking for an engineer to rebuild the kiosk, which he reckons will cost £7,000.

“We are trying to provide something for the public as there is not a great deal in Morecambe, but now there is uncertainty whether we will be able to hold a fair here next year – what with the Midland development and now this.

“I am left wondering where do I go from here and will it happen again?” adds Kenny.

Three fire engines from Morecambe attended the scene next to the Midland Hotel.

The fire happened just 30 minutes after a suitcase was set alight in the bus shelter opposite Princes Crescent.

Tim Murrell, watch commander at Morecambe, says the fairground fire is being treated as suspicious.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crimestoppers on 0800-555111.