residents are saying ‘we told you so’ after vandals set a viewing platform on fire at a beauty spot.

Fire crews were called to North Hinksey on Monday afternoon to reports of a blaze in Hutchcombe Copse, near Hurst Rise Road.

The fire was started on a dipping platform next to a small pond at a beauty spot, installed by North Hinksey Parish Council last autumn.

They said it would ensure nature lovers could watch the wildlife while sitting close to the water.

But last night residents claimed they had warned the council against installing the £3,000 platform from the start, as it would only attract vandalism.

Robin Carr, 64, of Hurst Rise Road, said: “We said all this would do would simply attract vandalism. And it has.

“Nobody really wanted it, apart from the parish council.

“At the height of it, there was nasty, thick black smoke coming from it.

“It is made from a plastic substance and you could see it melting into the water.”

But parish councillor Eric Batts said the platform had become a much-loved part of the copse.

Mr Batts, of the council’s recreation and amenities committee, said: “It’s a huge shame and appears to be completely mindless vandalism.

“Luckily, none of the wildlife has been ruined, and there seems to be no lasting damage to the water or the frogs in there. But the platform is completely ruined.

“Whoever has done this has shown no regard for the safety of others as it is very close to a concrete walkway.”

Earlier this year, the Oxford Mail reported how some residents of Hurst Rise Road had called for the parish councillors to be replaced after they ordered the pruning of trees in the copse.

They claimed the action had left the place looking “blown apart”.

Thames Valley Police last night confirmed the incident was being treated as arson.

Spokesman Christopher Kearney said they were appealing for witnesses and urged anyone with information to call 08458 505505 or call the Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.