ARSONISTS targeted New Forest public toilets in what police have described as a "very serious incident".

Lymington and New Milton Police took to Facebook last week to hit out at those responsible for the fire on October 28 at New Milton Recreation Ground.

Officers said that whoever is responsible for the attack was "adamant in causing damage", adding that "it could have been worse".

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service were forced to break the window in order to gain access.

A statement from Hampshire Constabulary said: "There has been an incident in the public toilets on the Recreation ground this evening.

"As you can see from the photo, this is a very serious incident and whoever carried out this act was adamant in causing damage.

"It could have been worse in that further damage and/or destruction of the toilet block could have occurred and nearby residents may have had to of been evacuated, luckily fire and rescue quickly responded.

"In order to gain quick access to the cubicle, fire and rescue had to break the window.

"We will be investigating this so If anyone knows anything, could they please call 101 to assist us in our enquiries."