Arson Attack Near War Memorial Before Remembrance Sunday
Officers in Stockport are investigating after a fire was deliberately started near the Cenotaph in Marple just days before Remembrance Sunday.
Emergency services responded at around 9:50pm on Wednesday, 5 November, following reports of a group of males near the war memorial. A bin and wooden pallets were set on fire, causing damage to the surrounding ground.
Investigation and Community Response
Marple neighbourhood officers are leading the investigation and are asking the public for any information related to the incident.
The event has sparked strong reactions on local Facebook groups and from councillors. Marple North councillor Steve Gribbon condemned the act, calling it:
"an absolutely disgraceful act and will not be tolerated."
Police Statement on the Incident
Police Sergeant Rachel Walton from the Stockport East Neighbourhood Policing Team highlighted the dangers involved:
“This was a reckless act that could have ended with more damage and even serious injury.
Police units arrived on scene within minutes and the fire was quickly extinguished by colleagues from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service.
We are working closely with partners at Stockport Council and the fire service to ensure the area is cleaned and restored.”
The authorities affirm their commitment to restoring the damaged site promptly.
Summary: The deliberate fire near Marple's war memorial, condemned by officials and police, is under investigation as local agencies work to repair the damage before Remembrance Sunday.