Arson investigators 'aware of online fire trend'

Police investigating several suspected arson attacks in rural Herefordshire have said they are "aware of a trend on social media relating to the starting of fires".

West Mercia Police said a fire was reported in Kinnersley at about 02:30 BST on Sunday, 23 August, followed by another near Norton Canon at about 02:50.

Both were in agricultural buildings about three miles apart and are being treated as arson.

The incidents are the most recent of several reported across rural parts of the county in recent weeks, police said.

Det Sgt Mark Jones said: "We are aware of a trend on social media relating to the starting of fires and remain open-minded about any potential links to the recent arsons in Herefordshire. Officers will continue to explore all lines of enquiry as part of our investigation."

A police spokesman said that investigations were at a "very early stage" and no arrests had been made.

Police are appealing to people living in the affected areas for information, particularly anyone who may have seen suspicious activity, vehicles or people, or who has dashcam, CCTV or doorbell footage.

Det Sgt Jones said: "We would urge anyone who may have information, however insignificant they believe it may be, to come forward and speak to the police."

He added: "Arson can have devastating consequences, particularly in rural areas where fires can spread quickly and pose a serious risk to people, property, livestock and the wider environment."

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