Arson attacks putting lives at risk

Police fear someone will be killed if those responsible for a spate of arson attacks are not caught.

They are appealing for help from the public to catch the arsonists in Rothwell, Northamptonshire.

Since the beginning of the year there have been numerous small fires on grassland and in sheds in the area.

Fire and police officers say up until now no-one has been injured, but it is only a matter of time before property is extensively damaged or someone is killed.

Rothwell residents must be disturbed and concerned about these incidents people need to come forward and pass information on to us so that we can act on it

Inspector Dick Aistrop

"We are very concerned to stop these incidents happening before someone is seriously injured or killed," said Inspector Dick Aistrop.

"I believe that whoever is setting these fires is a local person and I know that there is a lot of talk about these incidents in the local community.

"Rothwell residents must be disturbed and concerned about these incidents people need to come forward and pass information on to us so that we can act on it. "

Growing problem

The fire service say arson is a growing problem in the county with more than 4,500 fires started deliberately in the last year.

Station Officer Clive Taplin said: "Many deliberate fires start off as small fires in rubbish bins or grassland but we have many examples of fires that have spread uncontrollably to neighbouring properties, putting residents' lives at risk and causing considerable damage.

"These fires also waste valuable resources as fire crews attending these deliberate fires are not able to attend other incidents.

"This could mean the difference between life and death for someone trapped in a fire or road traffic accident," Station Officer Taplin added.