POLICE and fire officers have launched an investigation following a series of fires in Winyates West, Redditch, at the weekend.

Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (H&WFRS) was called to four separate incidents in the early hours of Saturday morning, all involving fires in external bin stores. This included incidents in Fownhope Close, Dolben Lane and Winforton Close, all between midnight and 2am.

Crews were called out four more times from 10-11pm on Saturday night to further fires in external bin cupboards in the same locality. This included two incidents in Dolben Close and one in Mordiford Close, plus a more serious fire in Winforton Close where a fire in the bin store spread to the porch of an occupied house.

No one was injured during the incident but gas and electricity supply was affected and so the couple and their two young children from the address had to be re-housed.

The fire service was also called to Kinnersley Close at around 12.30am on Monday morning to a fire involving a wheelie bin.

Police also attended the incidents.

West Mercia Police and H&WFRS are now investigating the fires, which they believe were started deliberately.

Watch commander Ade Taylor, arson reduction manager with H&WFRS, said: “We are deeply concerned at these fires. Thankfully there were no injuries but each incident had the potential for far worse consequences and it’s vital that those involved understand the seriousness of what they are doing.

“These incidents have made people living in the area feel very uneasy. Smoke from the bin stores has seeped into their properties, causing their smoke alarms to activate at all hours of the day and night.

“This is completely unacceptable and we’re working with police to investigate. Those involved should be aware that they could be facing very serious charges, and we’ll certainly be pushing for the maximum penalties for anyone found responsible.”

Local policing Inspector for Redditch, Ian Joseph, added: “These fires were very serious and could have led to loss of life.

“We are stepping up patrols and conducting a criminal investigation with a view to bringing the offenders to justice.

“The offenders should be under no illusion as to the seriousness of their actions and the likely consequences when they’re caught. Long custodial sentences will be anticipated.”

Witnesses or anyone with information should contact Redditch police on 0300 333 3000, quoting incident reference 397-N-170911, or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.