Arsonists set fire to community building, destroying memorial bench dedicated to Manchester Arena terror attack victim Kelly Brewster

A bench dedicated to a Yorkshire victim of the Manchester Arena terror attack has been destroyed in an arson attack on a popular community building.
By Lucy Leeson
Published 8th Mar 2021, 06:00 BST
Kelly Brewster.Kelly Brewster.
Kelly Brewster.

Arsonists targeted the Arbourthorne Tenants and Residents Association (TARA) building on East Bank Road, Sheffield on Saturday evening, not only causing considerable damage to the property, but also destroying a bench outside which was dedicated to Kelly Brewster, who died in the bomb blast while shielding her niece in May 2017.

Arbourthorne Councillor Ben Miskell said: "Those responsible should be ashamed of themselves. Not only have they destroyed a bench dedicated to a young woman who tragically lost her life in a terror attack, but they have caused thousands of pounds worth of damage to a well-loved community centre."

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Emergency services tackled the blaze, which has caused extensive damage inside and out, on Saturday evening. There is also substantial water damage from attempts to put out the fire.

The plaque on the bench which has been destroyed by arsonists.The plaque on the bench which has been destroyed by arsonists.
The plaque on the bench which has been destroyed by arsonists.

The building, owned by Sheffield City Council, is used as a based for the local tenants and residents association to meet. Bingo and other community events were regularly held there before the Covid-19 pandemic.

South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service were called out to the fire at the Arbourthorne Tenants and Residents Association (TARA) building on East Bank Road after receiving reports from residents.

Coun Miskell said: "Someone in our community knows who is responsible and I am encourage them to report this information to South Yorkshire Police or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."