CAR ARSON ALERT

Firefighters were called to Pankhurst Rise, Sidley, at about 1am on Tuesday after two cars were set light on the green. Both were gutted.

Later, Station Officer Mani Gilbert said: "We have had SEVEN such incidents in a week, all in the Sidley area - Preston Road, Norfolk Close and the like."

Damage runs into many thousands of pounds.

In Preston Road a blazing car damaged five garages. In neighbouring Norfolk Close six garages were affected.

The problem has led to police and the fire brigade formulating plans for a same-day tow-away scheme designed to clear abandoned cars off the streets.

Station Officer Gilbert said: "I would urge residents to be vigilant. This is obviously a growing trend and I would ask anyone who has any information to contact the police at Bexhill or the Crimestoppers 0800 555 111 number.

"Obviously, we are going to be working very closely in partnership with the police on this and our own Fire Intelligence Unit will also be involved tracking down the arsonists.

"My New Year's message to those involved in this is 'We will find you!'

"The cars are usually stolen. You normally find that they have been stolen in order to get home after a night out or to commit a crime.

"Those involved have no regard for public safety or the safety of neighbouring property.

"These burnt-out vehicles are a danger to others. When they burn they produce toxic fumes.

"When our firefighters turn out there is a risk to them from broken glass and sharp metal. There is also an environmental impact on the surrounding area."

But Station Officer Gilbert's worst fear is of a car blaze spreading to neighbouring property.

"The residents of Bexhill are at risk. There is a risk of someone getting seriously hurt.

"How long is it going to be before someone pushes a car up to a house and sets light to it and someone completely innocent loses their life?

"What seems like a 'bit of fun' could end in disaster.

"If anyone sees an abandoned car they should report it to the police so that it can be removed.

"We are starting early in the new year a scheme with the police whereby any abandoned car will be removed.

"We are looking for any abandoned car that is reported to be removed the same day."