Spate of arson attacks in Uckfield

Crews have been called to six incidents in the town this month – five of which took place at the same derelict farm building in Lewes Road.

Sussex Police are investigating.

Deliberate fires are a ‘serious problem’ which ‘endanger lives and divert valuable resources’, the East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said.

It is urging anyone with information to get in touch by calling 101.

The first of the five incidents at the building in Lewes Road took place on June 5 at 3.40pm.

Crews were subsequently called to fires at the same building at 7.45pm on June 21, 10.19am on June 22, 9.31am on June 25 and 1.38pm on June 27.

The sixth incident took place on June 12, when crews were called at 10.56am to a fire in the open on Hempstead Lane.

A fire service spokesman said: “Arson is a criminal offence that can lead to loss of life and injury.

“It can damage property and have a negative effect on the environment.

“Arson often starts with a fascination for fire and progresses to lighting small fires but this can quickly escalate onto skips, cars, derelict properties and most disturbingly people’s homes.

“Working with partner agencies, we aim to provide education to prevent individuals – and groups – from engaging in criminal activity.

“We work particularly hard to identify those who would benefit from early intervention to stop this sort of behaviour at the earliest opportunity.

“What may seem like a harmless or insignificant activity can escalate into something far more serious, and people need to be aware of the consequences of their actions.

“If you suspect anyone is involved in arson, you can call us on 101, or dial 999 in an emergency.”

Sussex Police has been approached for a comment.