Warning Over Wheelie Bin Fires In Redditch

Police have issued a warning following a series of fires in the north of Redditch in recent days.

Both police and fire officers have been called to several wheelie bin fires in roads in the Church Hill area, including Greystone Close, Chedworth Close, Flanders Close and Fulbrook Close on Saturday 6 February and Greystone Close again on Sunday 7 February.

Ade Taylor, Arson Reduction Manager with Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service said: "We are concerned at the danger that these wheelie bin fires pose to both the local community and the fire crews called out to deal with them.

"We're working alongside West Mercia Police to investigate them and also doing a targeted leaflet drop in the affected area, giving more advice and information to local residents. Anyone wanting to forward information about the fires can do so in confidence by calling 01905 368222."

PC Lindsey Hewitt, Local Policing Officer for Church Hill said: "We believe that these fires are being started deliberately and would urge whoever is responsible to stop immediately before they cause serious harm to themselves or other people and property.

"We are also appealing for anyone with information to pass this on to us at the earliest opportunity, especially anyone noticing any unusual activity near wheelie bins in their road."

Police warn that they are treating these fires as arson and will press for the maximum penalties for anyone convicted in connection with these incidents.

Anyone with information can call PC Hewitt at Redditch police station on 0300 333 3000 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Issued:  Thursday 11 February 2010