Telford arson attacks may be work of a copycat

The latest spate of arson attacks which have damaged cars in an area of Telford could have been the work of copycats, police said today.

Officers believe the latest attacks on cars in Hadley and Leegomery could be the work of people trying to imitate those responsible for a fires in the area between March 28 and 30.

It comes after six cars were attacked in the early hours of Friday in Crescent Road, Hurleybrook Way and Acacia Drive while a van was also found on fire in Arlestone Avenue at 10.30pm on the same night.

Police have also moved to reassure members of the community that the attacks on cars are not racially motivated. Superintendent Amanda Blakeman said there was 'no evidence' to suggest ethnic minorities were being targeted.

Wrekin MP Mark Pritchard today called on police to work with the Crimestoppers charity to offer a reward for help in catching the arsonists.

Twenty attacks have been carried out on cars in the area over 10 days. Five people were arrested following the fires between March 28 and 30.

They have all been released on police bail.

Police patrols in the area have been increased.

Superintendent Blakeman said: "We have no evidence to suggest the series of car arsons over recent weeks is racially motivated - the victims come from a mix of ethnic backgrounds, including white British, and we believe the arsons are being started randomly."

See also:

• Six more cars torched as Telford arsonists strike again

• Another four arrests in Telford car arsons probe

• More Telford cars set on fire as mystery arson attacks go on

• Seven cars set on fire in Telford arson attacks