POLICE are hunting “reckless” arsonists whose behaviour could have potentially had “severe consequences” in Poole.

On Sunday, May 5 at 3.20pm, the fire service was called to reports of four small fires on scrubland either side of the Sterte Industrial Estate.

Approximately 20 square metres of scrubland was also damaged.

The following day, a similar incident was reported by the fire service in the same area just after 2pm.

Police in Poole said they believe the fires were started deliberately and are now urging anyone who witnessed any suspicious activity on May 5 and 6 to contact them.

Police Constable Ben McSorley, of Poole police, said: “On these occasions it is fortunate that the fire service were on the scene quickly and were able to put out the fires, however, clearly this kind of reckless behaviour can potentially have severe consequences to the local habitat and even endanger lives.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55190067714. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.