Arsonists set back Manchester community football plans
Arsonists have set fire to a disused sports centre in Manchester that was at the centre of plans to revitalise community football.
Emergency services were called to Hardy Farm Sports Ground near the River Mersey in Chorlton at 2130 GMT on Friday.
The fire had been started in a function room by vandals who had broken into the building.
Police said the blaze had affected plans to re-develop the site.
Det Con Helen Bagnall said: "Plans to restore the building to active use for the local community football clubs have been adversely impacted by this attack.
"Setting fire to anything, let alone a building not only puts lives in danger but takes up a considerable amount of time for the emergency services who clear up after the culprits.
"I want to hear from anyone who has any information whatsoever about those responsible for this stupid and reckless act."