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Community Rallies After Fishponds Arson Attacks: Join the Phone Box Clean-Up

by | 9th July 2025 | Vassall Centre Development, Community Impact

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A burnt-out red and black phone booth with charred interior stands beside a white barrier with red markings near a body of water.

Recently, Fishponds has been hit by a series of arson attacks that have left many of us feeling shocked, upset, and more than a little frustrated. Cars, a clothes bank, and even our beloved red phone box outside the Vassall Centre have all been damaged. We’d been working with local residents to explore turning that phone box into a real asset for everyone, a welcoming spot for the community to enjoy. Seeing it go up in flames was incredibly sad, not just to us but to everyone who’d been involved in the project.

In response, we came together with local residents, police, and councillors for a meeting at the Vassall Centre. The police have stepped up patrols and are checking CCTV, and they’ve asked everyone to keep an eye out and report anything suspicious. There’s been an arrest connected to another arson in the area, and investigations are ongoing. We know it’s worrying, but we’re working together to make sure our neighbourhood stays safe.

After the fire, our team got stuck in straight away – clearing out the mess and getting a coat of primer on the phone box. It’s not just about tidying up what’s been damaged, but about showing that we’re committed to making something positive happen here.

phone booth at the vassall centre
phone booth burnt out
phone booth cleanup painting
phone booth painting primer

Help Us Bring the Phone Box Back to Life

community action day poster

Now, we’d love for you to join us for a Community Action Day this Saturday, 12th July, from 10am to 3pm at the Vassall Community Hub. We’ll be cleaning up the phone box site and getting the ground ready for a brand-new community garden. Whether you’re handy with a spade, have a knack for painting, or just want to lend a hand, you’ll be very welcome. Bring old clothes, gloves if you have them, and any gardening tools you can spare (but don’t worry if you don’t have any). We’ll keep everyone fuelled with free food and cake.

  • When: Saturday 12th July, 10am to 3pm
  • Where: Vassall Community Hub, Gill Avenue

Pop by for an hour or stay all day – every bit of help makes a difference. If you want to get involved or have any questions, just drop Jess a line at or ring 07724 546 519.

Hope to see you there!

Author: Bristol Charities

Author: Bristol Charities

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