Children are putting lives at risk

Youths have been setting fire to grass and rubbish in several areas of the town.

Firefighters suspect the young arsonists watch them tackle the blaze and then immediately ignite more refuse, as soon as the fire engines leave.

Crews were recently called to rubbish fires at Fairfield High School four times within one hour!

The malicious arson attacks usually start shortly after pupils leave schools, around 3pm and continue until 11pm.

Several areas on the Bongs and Watkinson Way have been targetted.

Leading firefighter Gary Simpson, said: "The amount of rubbish and grass fires we are getting is putting a drain on our resources.

"While we are there, we can't be anywhere else. We believe the youngsters are hiding round the corner because as soon as we go, we are called back again.

Serious

"They don't realise the serious consequences of their actions. They are putting peoples' lives at risk."

He warned that these pranks could lead to prosecutions.

"We treat arson very seriously," said leading firefighter Simpson.

"The police are always notified. These youngsters risk prosecution."