POLICE say they are investigating the cause of a suspicious fire that destroyed playground equipment at Cessnock McDonald's in the early hours of Sunday morning.
Fire and Rescue NSW crews from Cessnock, Abermain and Kearsley were called to the fast food restaurant on Allandale Road about 3.30am after reports of a fire.
When they arrived firefighters discovered the playground was well alight and worked for about 40 minutes to extinguish the blaze.
The fire had also spread to the interior of the building, the dining area, roof and exterior, which sustained extensive damage due to smoke and water damage.
The restaurant was closed at the time of the fire and no one was injured.
After about two hours, Hunter Valley police took over and established a crime scene.
Police say they have launched an investigation into the circumstances of the fire, which they say is being treated as suspicious.
The fire forced the restaurant to remain closed on Sunday.
Fire and Rescue NSW at Kearsley posted photos of the charred and blackened playground equipment and dining area on social media on Sunday.
Anyone with any information about the cause of the blaze is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
