H.E. Services steps in to save Dinosaurs in the Park held at Swanley Park after plant machinery stolen

A digger-hire firm stepped in to save a Dinosaurs in the Park event after £100,000 worth of plant machinery was stolen.

The family-friendly attraction at Swanley Park ran from October 3 to November 2.

Just days before the event, tens of thousands of pounds worth of machinery was stolen from the park, on September 26.

Shocking footage showed the moment two suspects were arrested, after officers spotted a suspicious vehicle parked near Dartford Heath.

The truck was carrying a JCB telehandler, and both were seized. A second item of alleged stolen machinery was later found abandoned and burnt out.

Two men were arrested at the scene in connection with offences including theft and criminal damage.

They are currently bailed with conditions pending further investigation.

After the original machinery, which had been hired in was stolen, H.E. Services stepped in to save the event.

They provided telehandler hire to help bring the unique attraction, which featured 39 life-sized animatronic dinosaurs, to life.

Ryan Hayman, CEO of Swanley Town Council, which organised the event, said: “Dinosaurs in the Park was an incredible success for Swanley, drawing visitors from across Kent and beyond.

“The support from H. E. Services was invaluable.

“Their equipment and professionalism helped make the setup process smooth and efficient, allowing us to deliver a truly unique experience for our guests.”

Marketing Manager at H. E. Services Ltd Lauren Nelson added: “It was fantastic to see our telehandlers in action during the setup of such a creative and large-scale project.

“We’re delighted that our equipment helped make the event possible.”

Last week, KentOnline reported how a dad was demanding answers after his young daughter narrowly escaped serious injury when a harness strap snapped on a bungee trampoline at the park event.

The health and safety expert slammed the operators after the 10-year-old came tumbling down at force when the cord broke while at the attraction.

A spokesman for Dinosaurs in the Park said the required safety documentation was “in place” and the equipment had been “signed off” by an independent health safety specialist.

He confirmed the ride was not closed following the incident, and checks were made after the family had left.

Swanley Town Council said it was encouraging the organisers of the event to work cooperatively with Sevenoaks District Council to get to the “bottom of this event promptly”.