POLICE are investigating an arson attack in which three horses died.

Officers believe the fire was started deliberately, but the motives are still unknown.

The three horses perished after someone set their stable alight in the early hours of this morning.

A number of residents called the fire brigade after seeing flames shooting out of the stable block behind the High Street in Skelton, east Cleveland, at about 6am.

Two fire appliances arrived, but it was too late for the horses, which had been trapped inside.

Inspector John Green, of Cleveland Police, said it was unclear at this stage whether the horses had been the specific target of the arsonists, but he said it was thought the fire had been started quite sometime before 6am.

"We are doing a joint investigation with the fire brigade, and the strong indication is that it's arson," he said.

"We can't rule out the possibility that the horses were targeted deliberately.

"It's obviously very distressing for the man who owns them. He is extremely upset by the incident and, clearly, it's going to leave a lasting impression on him.

"We would urge anyone with information to come forward."

The purpose-built stable block, which measured about 12ft by 30ft, was totally destroyed by fire, as was a tractor and pony trap.

And at about 8.30pm on Saturday, firefighters in Stockton and Billingham were called to Clarence's Community Farm in Holly Terrace, Port Clarence.

It is thought a quantity of hay had been deliberately set alight, resulting in some damage to a barn on the farm, which has very recently been refurbished.

A number of buildings on the farm were smoke-logged, but, fortunately, the 60 animals were all unharmed.

Billingham Fire Station watch manager Andy Robinson said youths were seen hanging around the area just prior to the blaze.

"The main priority for us was to get the fire under control and then get the smoke cleared from the neighbouring shed, where the livestock was being held.

"We had to force entry into the shed and then get the positive pressure ventilation fans out to help get rid of the smoke. A veterinary nurse came and looked the animals over and said they seemed fine.

"The police were there and we have passed our concerns onto them."

Anyone with information about either fire should call the arson investigation team at Cleveland Police on 01642-326326.