An appeal for witnesses has been launched in a Sussex village after authorities determined a fire was ignited intentionally.

Vegetation including twigs and foliage burned close to Roebuck Park Cricket Ground along The Drive in Hellingly at 8.30pm on Wednesday evening.

Hellingly Parish Council’s clerk, Jenny, expressed sorrow over the destruction wrought by Wednesday night’s flames, stating that had the fire brigade not responded promptly, extensive harm could have befallen the trees and fauna populating the Country Park.

The council has been coordinating with officers, their dedicated community support representative, and has consulted with the Youth Club, with Jenny clarifying that none of those who attend the club are believed responsible.

She encouraged anyone with knowledge to contact either the authorities or the council offices.

Jenny expressed hope that those responsible will find moral conscience and choose to identify themselves.

She called upon villagers and pedestrians to remain watchful and exercise caution.

East Sussex Fire Service has verified that the flames were ignited with intent.

The service reported receiving notification at 8.30pm on 29 April 2026 regarding an outdoor fire adjacent to Roebuck Park Cricket Ground on The Drive in Hellingly.

The individual who raised the alarm described observing twigs and foliage burning.

Crews extinguished the flames.

Investigators classified the incident as an intentionally started fire.

No injuries were reported.