VANDALS are suspected of starting a blaze that caused thousands of pounds worth of damage to a printing comp-any.

The blaze, which started in a bin outside the Max Design and Print Company, in Clifton Moor, York, damaged machines worth about £15,000.

But co-owner Darren Avey said the consequences could have been far worse - and praised the swift actions of firefighters who saved the building.

"Obviously, we are very fortunate because it could have been a lot worse," he said. "The work that the fire services do is commendable."

Three fire engines were called to the blaze shortly after 3am on Saturday, after reports of a fire at the building in Kettlestring Lane.

A fire service spokesman said the blaze was thought to have been started deliberately.

Firefighters smashed their way into the smoke-filled building using hydraulic cutters.

Mr Avey said: "The thing that shocks me most is the mindlessness of anyone who would do it."