Arson attacks spread across town

People living in a Berkshire town are being asked to report suspicious behaviour following a spate of arson attacks over the past month.

Police in Wokingham are investigating more than 10 cases of bins, fences and hedges being set on fire in Woodley, Earley and Finchampstead.

There were five fires at properties in Nightingale Road, Woodley, and police think they are spreading to Winnersh.

Police appealed for witnesses or anyone with information to contact them.

'Lives at risk'

Pc Naomi Jolliffe said that on Thursday fire crews were called to a total of five fires at the Winnersh park-and-ride, where bushes had been set on fire.

Mark Green, from Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: "Deliberate fires are not a joke.

"Not only can they cause serious criminal damage but they can also quickly spread to homes and businesses, putting lives at risk.

"Setting a deliberate fire also means that at least one crew of firefighters and an appliance has to go to deal with the fire, making them unavailable to attend to other emergencies.

"Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service is working closely with the police to identify deliberate fire setters in the area."