Office of MP Sharon Hodgson hit by fire and vandalism
The office of MP Sharon Hodgson has been hit by an overnight fire which is under investigation by the police.
Flames could be seen last night, September 10, at Vermont House in Concord, Washington, which houses the office for the Labour MP for Washington and Gateshead South.
There is currently a significant police and Fire Brigade presence at the site as investigations take place.
As well as extensive damage to the building, there is graffiti on the side of the building reading “328 days blood on your hands”, which locals feel may be linked to an ongoing global conflict.
One local resident said: “There are surely more democratic ways to protest about things. Other businesses look like they have also been affected. It’s difficult enough for local businesses at the moment without this.”
John Foster is a member of Eagle Archery who use the one of the building’s adjoining Mrs Hodgson’s office.
He said: “I arrived this morning to attend a practice session to find the entrance blocked off by police cars and tape.
“The building looks a bit of a mess. If this has been done deliberately then it’s shocking behaviour but people think they can get away with it.”
More on this as we get it.