PLEA FOR HELP AFTER STABLES HIT BY ARSON
A HORSE owner is appealing for help from the public to rebuild stables that were torched in a deliberate blaze.
Ffion Roberts said she lost everything contained in the shed in Bethel, near Caernarfon, earlier this month.
Luckily her three horses – Beau, Belle and Jac – were in a nearby field when the fire took hold.
But their stable containing tack, feed and equipment was completely ravaged by flames and now needs rebuilding from scratch.
Ms Roberts, 27, from Deiniolen, said: “The fire broke out in the early hours of November 8.
“Someone who lives nearby had seen the flames and called the fire brigade before getting in touch with my sister just after 1am.
“It was so upsetting seeing the aftermath of the fire.
“We’ve rented the stables from a lady who lives in Telford for 10 years and have never had a problem before.
“We are devastated and heartbroken to think this was deliberate.
“Luckily, I’d let the horses out that night because I’d ran out of hay, otherwise they’d have been in there. It doesn’t even bear thinking about.”
Ffion added: “Now we’ve had to move them because their water has been contaminated with toxic chemicals from the fire.
“The stables need completely rebuilding with an electricity and water supply, which will cost thousands, so we’ve had to ask for help.
“So far, some locals, including a joiner, have offered us their services, which is lovely, and we’ve also had items donated for the horses.
“It’s going to take some time but anything people can do to help, or any building materials they can spare, would be much appreciated.
“We’d also like to thank the fire service for their efforts.”
A crowdfunding page has been set up to help cover some of the costs.
A North Wales Fire and Rescue Service spokeswoman said: “We received a call at 1.31am on November 8.
“Two crews from Caernarfon attended.
“The fire involved a storage shed on a farm that was completely destroyed in the fire.
“The cause of the fire is believed to be deliberate ignition.”
A North Wales Police spokesman said: “Officers attended alongside colleagues from NWFRS.
“Our inquiries into this incident are currently ongoing.”
Anyone with information is urged to call police on 101 quoting incident reference number X162365.