This Is Arson Make No Mistake!

Councillor Phil Bateman said "I have received a complaint from a constituent who explained that her bins were being stolen when her neighbour intervened by 6-7 youths and two girls. The neighbour chased the kids and they left the bins, but not before they had already started a fire on the Park.

Further information suggests that they stole tins of paint from a skip in Russell Close to use as an accelerant.

Clearly we have a group of arsonists on the estate and they will remain a danger both to themselves and the community unless they are caught.

Using paint or other accelerants is very dangerous and could cause an explosion, that could easily engulf those that are lighting the fire. I would like to make an urgent appeal to the youngsters on this estate that read this web site.

Tell the police or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 anonymously of the names and addresses of these youngsters. They need to know and understand that this type of action is highly dangerous and is a very serious crime.

I shall be emailing Coppice High School with this web page in the hope that the school can also put out solid advice against such actions taking place. I am mindful that the former Pavillion which is to be demolished was also attacked by arsonist's and we really cannot afford to have people with this sort of mindset taking the action of the type that happened on Saturday evening."