This is what happened at a fire in Wivelsfield

East Sussex Fire & Rescue was called at 3.20am on Thursday (July 8) to reports of a fire in Hundred Acre Lane. The first floor and the roof of a derelict farmhouse were ‘well alight’, according to the service.

Crews said at the height of the incident, eight fire engines were in attendance along with a command support team and a water carrier.

Police were also in attendance and the cause of the fire will be investigated.

This incident, as well as a fire in Ringmer the previous day, has triggered the service to stress the problem of arson attacks the emergency services are dealing with.

A spokesperson from the fire service said, “They endanger lives and divert valuable resources.

“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.”

The service has told people there are ways of combating arsonists:

Rubbish is a ready source of fuel for an arsonist, so only put rubbish out on collection days, store it in a safe container and location, and don’t overload skips.

Security measures should be taken such as keeping buildings locked, boarding up derelict buildings, and making sure any flammable substances are stored safely and securely.

Dumped rubbish and abandoned vehicles are common targets for arsonists, you can report them to Eastbourne Borough Council.

The service said children playing with fire is also an increasing problem. For helpful resources visit: https://www.esfrs.org/your-safety/arson-reduction/firewise/

Report suspicious behaviour to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or contact Sussex Police on 101 with information.