A PETROL-BOMBED children’s centre has been given a helping hand by police and a local business.

Dalton’s Home Start Centre was attacked during the August disorder which devastated the mother and baby room, forcing the group to relocate while refurbishment work was carried out.

Since then Huddersfield South Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) has got behind the centre and arranged a collection at the local police station where toys, clothes and books could be donated.

They also approached Huddersfield-based company Mamas and Papas, which donated five high chairs and baby changing mats.

Senior group worker Angie Schofield, who runs the mother and baby group at the centre, said: “I was devastated when I saw the extent of the damage after the fire.

“I’m very grateful for the donations of baby equipment, toys and furniture that we have received.

“A lot of hard work and community spirit has gone into keeping the groups running.

“We are especially grateful to the officers from West Yorkshire Police who organised the collection of equipment for us and to Mamas and Papas for their generosity at a time when we really needed it.

“Thanks also go to Sarah Haigh, one of our volunteers who has also collected many items for us.”

Insp Adrian Waugh, from Huddersfield South NPT, said: “The disorder in August affected a number of our communities and the arson attack on the Home Start Centre had a devastating affect on local families who relied massively on the support and activities run there.

“The police are part of this community and we wanted to give a little back to those that do so much for others.

“I would hope the collections and contributions go a little way to help the group rebuild what was lost.”

The refurbished mum and baby room, which offers support to 24 young mums, will be completed in December.

For more information on the centre or to volunteer or donate call 01484 421925.

Six people were initially arrested on suspicion of arson at the centre but later released without charge.

A 16-year-old boy was arrested and released on bail. Investigations are still ongoing.