Flatford National Trust ice cream kiosk hit by fire and theft

The ice cream and coffee kiosk at the National Trust Tea Room at Flatford was set alight and destroyed in the incident.

Crates of ice cream had also been stolen and were found around three-quarters of a mile along the river path, heading towards Dedham.

The incident happened between 5.30pm on Thursday, June 23 and 2.48am on Friday, June 24.

Emergency services rushed to the scene but sadly the kiosk could not be saved.

Police have only this week released details of the incident, which they are treating as arson and theft. 

A National Trust spokesman said: “We are saddened to learn that Flatford's ice cream kiosk has been destroyed as the result of a suspected arson attack.

“Flatford is at the heart of the Dedham Vale and the kiosk has been serving ice creams for many years to thousands of visitors who enjoy this beautiful and historic landscape.

“We would like to thank the emergency services for their quick response and are working with them as a full investigation is carried out.

“The site is open as normal and visitors can still pick up a summer treat from the tea-room."

Thousands of visitors flock to the beauty spot on the River Stour each year.

Many go to see the view which inspired John Constable’s iconic landscape painting The Hay Wain.

Many of Constable’s landscapes were painted from the idyllic countryside of the Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which surrounds Flatford, where Constable spent his childhood and early life.

Suffolk Police is now appealing for witnesses or anyone with information about the incident to come forward.

A spokesman said: “Anyone who witnessed the incident, knows who was responsible, or has any information, is asked to contact Suffolk police quoting crime ref 37/40153/22.”

The force can be contacted via 101, emailing Daniel.Fisk@suffolk.police.uk or visiting www.suffolk.police.uk/contact-us/existing-report-update.

Alternatively you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.