Posted on 25th Aug
Kind-hearted cops gave a little boy a surprise to remember when they pulled up at his house with a van full of toys.
Four-year-old Harrison Smith lost many of his favourite playthings during an arson attack near his home in Forest Town when flames spread to his outdoor playhouse and destroyed dozens of his most treasured toys.
One house on Maunleigh suffered considerable damage from the arson attack, while flames spread to the outdoor playhouse in Claire and Adam Smith’s home.
Police, who arrested two teenagers on suspicion of arson, learned about Harrison’s toys and wanted to do something help.
Neighbours have also raised money for those affected through a Gofundme appeal.
Pc Colin Bland, of the Mansfield Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “This was a horrible experience for Harrison and his family and we decided we had to do something to help.
“So, using our contacts in the local community, we approached several businesses and asked them to help out with donations.
“Members of our own team also contributed and I was genuinely amazed with how much came in in such a short space of time.
“People really were amazingly generous and I was delighted to be able to deliver these toys directly to Harrison. He really is a super little boy and it was so rewarding to see his face when we arrived.
“As police officers we spend a lot of time dealing with very difficult and challenging people so it is always a joy when we are in a position to do something like this.
“Contributions were made by Smyths Toys, Argos, Tesco on Oak Tree Lane, Mansfield; and Asda in Forest Town. I can’t thank them enough.”
Claire added: “The fire was really upsetting for all of us – particularly for Harrison who lost so many of his toys.
“The police have been really supportive ever since it happened but this was a total surprise for us. Pc Bland said he was going to pop over to see Harrison again but this was just totally overwhelming.
“I would like to thank everyone involved in making this happen – from the officers who took part to the local businesses who have been so generous.”
