Arsonists set fire to a digger in another attack in Weymouth

Firefighters rushed to a building site off Lorton Lane to find the vehicle well alight early yesterday morning.

Fire chiefs have issued a warning into the dangers of arson attacks following a spate of blazes across Weymouth and Portland.

Dorset Fire and Rescue revealed that crews have tackled 90 arson attacks in the borough so far this year, while arsonists struck 104 times across the same period in 2011.

Dave Myers, station manager at Weymouth Fire Station, said: “Arson is a mindless act which not only causes serious damage to the environment but can tie up a fire crew’s time and resources when they could be dealing with a real emergency.

“Not only is starting a fire extremely dangerous for the individuals involved, it can also be harmful to people who really are in danger and need our help.

“Firefighters are put in danger needlessly when they attend these incidents, not to mention the damage to the community and the fact arson is illegal.”

Dorset Police confirmed the blaze on the Linden Homes building site was started deliberately.

Officers are appealing for witnesses to help them with their enquiries.

To help Dorset Police with their enquiries into the blaze call them on 101.

Residents Tell Of Fears

BROADWEY residents were worried after arsonists torched a digger close to their homes.

Tony and Janette Greaves, of the Spinney, said they were worried the blaze would spread to their property.

Mr Greaves dialled 999 when he heard explosions and saw huge flames at the back of his home.

Mrs Greaves said: “The digger was parked right at the back of our property, it was quite scary.

“We were lucky that my husband decided to go into the back room when he did because there was nobody else around.

“Other arson attacks have happened around here, it is worrying.”

The digger blaze comes after resident Brian Scott’s car was torched and destroyed on Lorton Lane in August.

Mr Scott, 79, said: “My car was completely destroyed after it was set on fire by arsonists and it caused us so much hassle and worry. It is sad to see another arson attack has taken place nearby.”

Information

DORSET Fire and Rescue provides information and advice to children showing an interest in setting fires.

Dave Myers, station manager at Weymouth Fire Station, said: “Dorset Fire and Rescue provides a firesetters service, where two trained advisors can provide information and advice to a child showing an interest in setting fires.”

For more information on this service email firesetters@dorsetfire.gov.uk