Arsonists who set fire to Hall Park's centrepiece bandstand have destroyed part of Rushden's heritage.

Local historian Eric Fowell, of Rushden and District History Society, said he was shocked by the loss of the building.

He said: "I expect those who did it are only in their early teens. I hope in years to come they will realise what they have done. It is a terrible loss to the town and a sad day for Rushden.

"It would be nice to see it replaced but I don't think that will happen as the cost would be astronomical."

He has called for greater security at the park in a bid to protect Rushden Hall itself.

The bandstand was presented to the town by local shoe manufacturer John White in 1935 to commemorate the silver jubilee of King George V.

It was built by Robert Marriott of Rushden at a cost then of about £2,000.

It featured eight columns of oak. In the corners of each bay were carvings of animals and birds all of which at one time could be found in Hall Park estate.

East Northamptonshire Council had recently spent thousands of pounds restoring the bandstand. Council chairman Maye Dicks said that money had been wasted .