ARSONISTS caused £22,000 worth of damage to a North-East kitchen factory when they set fire to wooden pallets in a yard.

The blaze, at Magnet in Darlington, early on Friday evening, destroyed a large number of the pallets.

The heat was so intense it bent a metal shed at the site, in Allington Way.

Police have arrested two people in connection with the fire, but are still appealing for people to come forward with information.

Inspector Alan Davison said: "The problem that we have up there is that kids are getting in and playing among the pallets.

"It is an ongoing problem but this time there was £22,000 worth of damage and the road had to be closed.

"What has happened on Friday is that someone has set a fire and it has taken hold.

"We would like to hear from anyone who knows people who hang around there."

Anyone with information is asked to call (01325) 467681.