Charity cash and 'freedom' destroyed in van arson

Cash raised for charity and about £8,000-worth of yoga equipment was destroyed in a Boxing Day arson attack on a vehicle.

Susan Universe's classic VW Campervan was found on fire in the early hours of 26 December on Mardsen Lane in Westerhope, Newcastle.

Ms Universe, from North Shields, said she adored the 39-year-old van which had been her "wilderness", her "freedom" and her "creativity".

Police are investigating the fire and reports of a man seen shouting at the time, while a crowdfunding page has been set up to help the victim.

Money raised for Women's Street Watch in Newcastle had been in the van when the fire took hold, Ms Universe said.

Among the items destroyed were a large gong, crystal singing balls and sound healing equipment which she used while teaching yoga.

Speaking about what the van meant to her, she said: "I didn't live in her all the time, but I spent a lot of time in her so I could be a bit of a wild woman.

"There were so many things that were my livelihood in there, that I used to use to do community events."

Northumbria Police said officers are investigating the fire which was spotted at 03:15 GMT on Boxing Day.

"Enquiries are ongoing and the cause of the fire is being treated as suspected arson," a spokesperson for the force said.

"It was also reported that a man was seen shouting in the area at the time of the fire."

Witnesses and anyone with information have been asked to contact police.

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