A PETITION signed by 200 residents is calling for a sports pavilion to be rebuilt after it was destroyed by vandals in an arson attack.

Thornhill Tenants and Homeowners' Association is demanding Greenwich Council replaces Hornfair Park Pavilion, Charlton Park Lane, Charlton.

Arsonists set fire to the bowls club on March 12. The roof collapsed and the building was gutted.

Now the association's chairman Ernie Filer is hoping the council will restore the building and the park to its former glory.

His petition, which will be handed over at a full council meeting this evening, also calls for night-time illumination near the building and provision of CCTV in the park to provide greater security.

Mr Filer, of Prince Henry Road, Charlton, said: "The park has deteriorated so much the majority of people won't allow their children to go in on their own.

"In light of what has happened we need to have people permanently in the park to bring back a code of behaviour."

The 80-year-old added: "There is a great deal of feeling in getting the building and the park restored to what it used to be. It used to be a godsend, an oasis.

"We hope the petition will be successful. If the council doesn't agree these things then we will extend the fight throughout the community."

Hornfair ward councillor David Gardner said: "I welcome the petition. I'd like to see the kind of investment to make into a strategic park similar to what we have done for Well Hall Pleasaunce."

A council spokesman said: "We will look at any petition which is presented to the council and will consult with residents before any final decision is taken."

l Six teenagers were arrested on March 12 on suspicion of arson. They were bailed to return to a south London police station yesterday.