'We need your help': Fundraiser launched for cherished Leeds farm after suspected arson attack
Popular Leeds community farm appeals for funding following repeated vandalism
A crowdfunding campaign has been set up by a much-loved family visitor attraction after vandals attacked their site.
And for the team at Kirkstall Valley Farm, this isn’t the first time they have been the victim of vandalism.
They have now launched a fundraising appeal to help strengthen security at the site which provides support for families across the city.
Shocking images showed the scale of damage to a children’s playhouse and a burned exterior building.
The beloved business, based on Kirkstall Road, has been supporting families in the area for over a decade, providing affordable, local produce to all.
Posting on social media, the team said: “We’re asking for your help to protect the community we’ve spent the last five years building.
“Sadly this isn’t the first time Kirkstall Valley Farm has been vandalised, and we know we need to take steps to make the site more secure.”
The fundraiser will seek to cover costs for new CCTV cameras, improved perimeter security, as well as an extension of local electricity supply to the farm in order to make the site more immune to unwanted visitors.
The post added: “These improvements will help protect everything that’s gone into creating this much-loved community space: the time, money, generosity, and goodwill of our KVF community.”
West Yorkshire Police said they are investigating the incident.
In a statement, the force said: “We are aware of recent criminal damage incidents at the Kirkstall Valley Farm in October, including vandalism to caravans, sheds, and a children’s play village between Saturday, October 10 and Monday, October 12.
“A caravan was also reported to have been damaged by an arson attack during the early hours of October 16.”
For more information about how to donate visit: Help Protect Kirkstall Valley Farm
West Yorkshire Police have urged anyone with information or footage relating to the incident to contact Leeds West Neighbourhood Policing Team on 101, or online at http://www.westyorkshire.police.uk/livechat, referencing crime number 13260580937.