AN HISTORIC bowling pavilion was damaged in a suspected arson attack.

And a councillor has hit out at the "imbeciles" responsible for the latest attack on facilities in Queen's Park, Blackburn.

Firefighters were called to the park just after 11pm on Friday after a pile of timber was propped up against the rear wall of the building and set alight.

Crews spent about two hours at the scene tackling the blaze.

Police and the fire service have launched an investigation.

Liam Wilson, watch manager at Blackburn fire station said: "It is a Victorian building built out of brick.

"The fire could have easily spread to the whole building but fortunately it was restricted to the roof.

"However, it still will not be able to be used until it is repaired or rebuilt."

Coun Salim Mulla said the fire was the latest in a long line of incidents which had plagued the park in recent years.

About 18 months ago a clubhouse was left badly damaged following a blaze.

Coun Mulla said: "The people who look after Queen's Park do a fantastic job.

"It is very sad that all the hard work that is done has once again been undone by the imbeciles who have done this.

"It is a wonderful park and I cannot understand why anyone would want to do such a thing.

"The idiots responsible should be ashamed."

Inspector Nick Williams-Jones of Lancashire police said: "Items were found near the scene which are undergoing examination.

"We would appeal for anyone with information about the incident to come forward."

Contact police on 0845 1 535 45 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.