IT is only a matter of time until someone is seriously injured or even killed, police have warned arsonists after tackling the fifth fire in recent weeks in Redcar.

Police and firefighters are urging locals to report anything suspicious following the latest blaze in the town’s Coatham area.

At about 11.40pm last night (Saturday, August 23) fire crews were called to small fire on Hanson Court where an unknown person placed a rubbish bag at the front of a property and set it alight.

“Thankfully, damage was minimal and no-one was injured,” said a spokeswoman for Cleveland Police.

“Officers say that it’s only a matter of time before someone is seriously hurt or even killed be these fires and are asking residents to remain vigilant whilst investigations continue to find those responsible.

“Police and fire officers remain active in the area and are urging people to report any suspicious activity.

Police have been called to five incidents since August 5 in similar circumstances, where wheelie bins or rubbish has been pushed against properties or alleyways in Hanson Court and Soppett Street and set on fire.

Acting Sergeant Andy Micklewright said: “I want to reassure local residents that we are doing all we can to find those responsible and that they can help us by calling and reporting anything which may be suspicious.

“My message to these arsonists is to stop what you are doing before someone is seriously injured or killed. We are determined to find you and bring you to justice and it’s only a matter of time before we do,” he added.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Cleveland Police on the non-emergency number 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800-555111.