RESIDENTS are being urged to shop arsonists to reduce the number of fire attacks on Teesside.

Arson cases account for nearly 90 per cent of incidents Cleveland Fire Brigade is called to.

Every home in Hemlington, where there were 248 arson attacks last year, most of them involving vehicles, is being leafleted by firefighters.

The pilot initiative is being supported by agencies including the police.

Teesside's Arson Task Force is appealing for people to shop those responsible for the fires by calling Crimestoppers in confidence on (0800) 555 111.

Alternatively, people can contact their local police station.