Heath targeted by arsonists twice

Arsonists caused a huge fire on Canford Heath in 2006

Arsonists have started two fires in two days on an area of sensitive heathland in east Dorset.

Police said the first blaze on Canford Heath was at Hatch Pond, off Sandy Hurst Close, on Monday afternoon.

The second, in the corner area between Culliford Crescent and Dorset Way, was reported just before midday on Tuesday.

Officers said nobody was hurt but the fires were started deliberately. A police search of the area was carried out but no-one has been arrested.

Regular patrols

Pc Tom Issac, of Canford Heath Safer Neighbourhood team, said: "The two incidents are being treated as arson.

"I am appealing for anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious, or who has any information, to report it to police or Crimestoppers as soon as possible.

"I also am appealing for the public to be vigilant and to report any suspicious activity on heathland to the police as soon as they see or hear about it."

He said police would be carrying out regular patrols of Canford Heath.

In March 2006, a massive fire on Canford Heath destroyed about 200 hectares of sensitive heathland.

Police believe that too was started deliberately.

About 170 firefighters spent three hours battling that blaze, during which more than 100 local residents had to leave their homes.