A North East fire brigade has joined forces with police to tackle the problem of deliberate fire setting in outdoor spaces as the staggering cost of arsons was revealed .

Cleveland Fire Brigade and Cleveland Police revealed arson cost the Teesside economy £25million over the last year.

Almost 5,000 fires were deliberately set in the last financial year across Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Redcar & Cleveland, and Stockton-on-Tees, 59 of which were on Eston Hills.

Robin Turnbull, Area Manager – Prevention, Protection and Engagement at Cleveland Fire Brigade said: “These fires divert our resources away from other emergencies where lives may be at risk, as well as destroy our beautiful countryside and outdoor spaces.

“By working with our partners and the local community we hope we can drive down the number of incidents and keep the area we live safe.

“We would urge residents to be vigilant when out and about. Dispose of rubbish responsibly, only put wheelie bins out on the day of collection and bring them straight back in and report fly tipping to your local council.”

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Acting Inspector Rory Sadler from the Greater Eston Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) said: “Starting deliberate fires is wholly irresponsible and can have very serious consequences.

“Not only is there is a risk that the fire could spread and cause further damage, but it also puts lives at risk. If you are caught starting fires, then you will be arrested and could potentially be left with a criminal record.

“We know residents are concerned about deliberate fires on Eston Hills and our neighbourhood officers are working closely with Cleveland Fire Brigade to tackle the issue.