FIRE services across the region have joined forces to try to cut the number of arson attacks during the summer holidays.

Northumberland, Tyne and Wear, Cleveland and Durham and Darlington brigades are working together to address the problem of fires started by young people who are bored during the summer break.

An added concern is that there are more sources of fuel available when the weather gets hotter.

Brian Carter, administrative district officer for Cleveland Fire Brigade's community education division, said: "Apart from the obvious dangers of serious injury or even death to people playing with fire, fire-setters' behaviour can also create much wider dangers for the community.

"If a fire engine is tackling a blaze caused deliberately, it's not available to deal with other incidents where lives may be at risk. That's why we need to get the message out that fire-setting is a serious crime which can have tragic consequences."

The fire services are working with the police and councils to target recreational areas which attract young arsonists.

They also hope to raise awareness of the danger of making hoax calls by talking to youngsters, and monitoring and recording call box and mobile hoax calls.

Fire stations across the region are working directly with young people to involve them in sports and other activities to keep them busy during the summer and prevent the usual rise in arson attacks