Investigation launched after arson attack in Coulby Newham

Police are appealing for information after a suspected arson attack at Newham Hall Farm in Coulby Newham.

The incident occurred on Sunday 16th July at around 12:45pm. As a result of the fire, a tractor and 30 acres of crops were destroyed, amounting to thousands of pounds worth of damage.

It is believed a group of youths are responsible for the attack.

Detective Constable Joanne Williams said:

“This fire has had a devastating impact on the owners of the farm and has caused significant damage, leaving crops and a tractor completely ruined. Luckily no one was injured but this fire could have easily escalated, resulting in someone being severely injured or even killed.

“We believe that a group of youths are responsible for the fire and therefore we would appeal to parents to ensure that they know where their children were when the incident happened. Arson will not be tolerated and immediate action will be taken against anyone involved in this incident.”

Phil Lancaster, Director of Community Protection at Cleveland Fire Brigade said:

“Make no mistake, deliberate fire setting is a blight on the whole community. Fires such as these can cause serious damage and divert our resources away from real emergencies.

“Fires of this nature are extremely dangerous and while to young people setting fires in fields may be seen as harmless, the flames can spread very quickly and can have deadly consequences. Once again we ask parents to make sure they know what their children are doing and make sure they are staying out of trouble.”

Anyone who may have witnessed what happened or anyone with information regarding those responsible is asked to contact DC Joanne Williams on the non-emergency number 101, Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800555111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org