Arson attack on Second World War vessel in Sprotbrough

Police are appealing for information after the Wyre Lady, an 82-year-old boat, was damaged at Sprotbrough Locks, adjacent to the Trans Pennine Trail.

It is believed the incident happened last Wednesday between 6pm and 6.30pm, a spokeswoman for South Yorkshire Police said.

Officers are keen to speak to any witnesses that were on the Trans Pennine Trail at Sprotbrough around the time of the incident, that noticed anybody around the Wyre Lady, and any cars with dashcam footage from around the same time travelling along Mill Lane, Sprotbrough, over the River Don and the canal.

PC Josh Smith, investigating officer said: "The Wyre Lady boat is an impressive vessel with incredible history.

"She was built in 1938 as a railway passenger ferry.

"In 1939 the then-named Ashton was requisitioned by the Royal Navy on the outbreak of the Second World War.

“In 1978, The Wyre Lady was brought to Doncaster where she continued to trade having carried near on 2m passengers over the course of her life.

“We are disappointed that someone would want to cause such damage and are urging anyone with information that could help our investigation to come forward."

Anyone with information should call 101 quoting incident number 745 of June 25.