Cambridgeshire Couple’s Boat Destroyed in Suspected Arson Incident

A couple from March, Cambridgeshire, have expressed considering relocation after their beloved cabin cruiser boat, moored outside their home, was destroyed last month. Tony and Patsy Gosling believe the vessel was deliberately set on fire. They had purchased it for £5,000 four years ago and invested an additional £1,000 in a new engine, but their insurance policy did not cover fire damage. A 15-year-old individual was apprehended in connection with suspected arson but was subsequently released. The Goslings conveyed their distress regarding the incident and now face a £1,000 charge for the removal of the charred boat. Mr. Gosling stated that the couple had previously been concerned by multiple instances of anti-social conduct occurring along the river prior to the fire. He recounted, “Teenagers had been reportedly kicking front doors and scaring residents around Halloween, that escalated to fires being started in wheelie-bins and then our boat fire.” Mr. Gosling added, “We are just thankful that no-one has been seriously injured, or worse.” While the incident has prompted the couple to contemplate departing the town, they have also experienced community support. Mr. Gosling remarked, “We have also seen the best in human nature,” noting that they have received numerous messages of goodwill, with neighbors even extending offers to use their personal boats. Middle Level Commissioners, the authority responsible for the waterways where the boat was moored, has since contacted the couple to inform them that the burnt hull must be removed, an operation estimated to cost approximately £1,000. Paul Burrows, chief executive of Middle Level Commissioners, commented: “It really is a shocking incident and we really feel for the couple involved.” He further explained, “Boat removal is a complex and costly operation, especially for sunken vessels. Unfortunately the cost associated with safe removal will need to be borne by the owners.” Burrows clarified, “£1,000 is a ballpark estimate based on our recent operations.” He also mentioned that the couple is at liberty to investigate “other options of removal.”