Teenagers arrested over suspected field arson near York

Two teenagers have been arrested after a suspected arson attack caused an estimated £30,000 of damage to crops near York, police said.

Emergency services were called to a field on Askham Lane in Acomb shortly after 15:30 BST on Sunday following reports of a fire.

North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service (NYFRS) brought the blaze under control and nearby roads, which had been closed because of heavy smoke, were later reopened.

North Yorkshire Police said a 15-year-old girl and a 17-year-old girl, both from the local area, were arrested on suspicion of arson shortly afterwards.

Police said a further eight fires were reported across the area over the weekend, six of which were being treated as deliberate.

Local farm contractor Cameron Bartram, 19, helped to create a fire break in the field, alongside his friend Jay Loft.

Bartram said the fire was “spreading really quick” when he arrived in his tractor, with the wind fanning the flames.

“I was just glad I was nearby and could get there to help a neighbouring farmer.

“If it happened to us I’d like to think that a neighbouring farmer would be here to help us.

“It was horrible really. And for the farmer as well, just a massive loss.

“It’s just that dry at the minute, everything can catch alight like no problem at all.”

Nick Allenby, from NYFRS, warned: “Fire spreads quickly and can be unpredictable.

“Even a small fire can spread rapidly and divert crews away from life-threatening emergencies.”

The fire service appealed to parents and guardians to discuss the risks and consequences of setting fires with young people ahead of the summer holidays.

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