Three teenagers have been arrested after play equipment at a Wythenshawe school, due to be visited by the Duchess of Cambridge, was destroyed in a fire.

Willows Primary School on Tayfield Road, Woodhouse Park will be visited by the Duchess, Kate Middleton later this month.

The fire was started sometime between 6.10pm and 6.15pm on Wednesday 10 April 2013 at the children’s playground at the school.

No one was injured during the incident and fire crews were quickly on the scene and controlled the fire.

But the playground equipment was completely destroyed, causing an estimated £46k worth of damage.

People in the local community are said to be rallying to restore to the playground in time for the royal visit on April 23.

Inspector Caroline Hemmingway from Wythenshawe police station, said: “There has been an overwhelming response from the community, local residents, students, councillors, community wardens, police officers and staff have been out in force and have between them pledged to rebuild the playground.”

Three boys, aged 13 were arrested on suspicion of arson, they have been bailed pending further enquiries.

Any witnesses or anyone with information is asked to call police on 0161 856 4548