Mask-wearing youths suspected of starting fires

Youths wearing masks are suspected of deliberately starting as many as nine fires in Worcestershire, police have said.

The incidents happened at The Snipes, near Astley Cross on the outskirts of Stourport-on-Severn, with the first reported on 27 June.

A spokesperson for West Mercia Police said: "In some cases, reports have indicated that youths wearing masks and face coverings are involved and this is forming part of our enquiries."

They added the force would be "stepping up surveillance tactics and patrols" in the affected area.

Sgt Matt Ling of Wyre Forest SNT said: "We are aware of multiple incidents of fires on The Snipes in the past couple of weeks which are believed to have been started deliberately and are working with our colleagues at HWFRS (Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service) to investigate them.

"It goes without saying that starting fires deliberately in tinder dry grassy areas can cause a lot of damage and potentially risk to surrounding buildings, especially with the heatwaves we have been having recently, as well as being a waste of time and resources for the emergency services."

The officer added he would urge anyone with information or footage of the incidents to contact West Mercia Police.

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