Schools in Bedfordshire hosted a professional theatre company in a bid to cut down the number of fires started by children in the holidays.

Arson About was staged across the county with the sponsorship of Bedfordshire and Luton Fire and Rescue Service. Chief fire officer Paul Fuller said: “This is a cost-effective and engaging way to get across to young people how playing with fire can lead to tragedy. Some 60 per cent of fires in the UK are started deliberately.

“We do not believe in Bedfordshire that young people are responsible for all arsons, but a significant number of bin fires, field fires and similar incidents are caused by those who do not realise they are putting their own and others lives at risk.” ib.