In South Croydon, residents were astonished to find a burnt-out car left on Purley Way Playing Fields after another night of illegal driving in the area. The community on Waddon Way reported hearing a vehicle revving its engine loudly on the playing fields around 12.30am on Wednesday. The London Fire Brigade (LFB) was called to the scene as the car caught fire near Harris Academy Purley. It is uncertain whether the fire was intentional, according to the LFB.
Although the car remains on the site, causing a burnt patch on the grass, the council assured that no permanent damage was done and they plan to remove the vehicle soon. The reckless drivers not only left the burnt wreckage but also damaged several football pitches on the playing fields. The culprits have not been identified yet, but the police are conducting an investigation.
This incident follows a similar one on Sunday night, where a Mitsubishi 4×4 was spotted speeding and performing dangerous maneuvers on the fields, leaving deep tire marks. The burnt car resembles the one from Sunday, but it is so severely damaged that confirmation is not possible, as per the police.
Local residents expressed their disbelief at the repeated vandalism and called for better protection of their green spaces to prevent further harm. Waddon’s Labour councillor Rowenna Davis criticized the council for not taking proper care of the open spaces, allowing such vandalism to occur.
Councillors Davis and Ponnuthurai urged the Mayor to safeguard the beautiful Purley Way Playing Fields, a popular spot for families, dog walkers, and football enthusiasts. The council has reported the incident to the police for investigation and appreciates residents who came forward with information. They are working with law enforcement to address the issue and encourage anyone with details to contact the authorities.
