Two teenage girls arrested on suspicion of arson in York

A 15-year-old girl and a 17-year-old girl were detained by North Yorkshire Police shortly after the incident in Woodthorpe at around 3.30pm on Sunday (July 12).

As The Press reported, fire swept across a large area of wheat field, close to Moor Lane and Askham Lane, and was rapidly advancing toward homes before it was extinguished by firefighters from North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, with the help of local farm workers.

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North Yorkshire Police closed nearby roads due to the huge plume of smoke which resulted, causing near-zero visibility for some drivers.

The fire caused an estimated £30,000 in damage (Image: North Yorkshire Weather Updates)

The roads were later reopened but members of the public were advised to continue to avoid the area while emergency services worked to make the scene safe.

North Yorkshire Police said a further eight fires had been reported across North Yorkshire over the weeked – six of which the force said are being treated as deliberate and remain under investigation.

Neighbourhood Policing Sergeant Ben Ambler, of North Yorkshire Police, commenting on the Woodthorpe fire, said: “Arson is a serious offence that puts lives at risk and, in this case, has caused significant damage to a local farmer’s crops.

“Two local teenagers were swiftly arrested in connection with the suspected arson in Acomb yesterday, and our investigation is progressing at pace.

“We have a problem-solving plan in place to address this issue and will continue our joint work with partners to educate young people about the dangers and consequences of fires as we head into the summer school holidays.”

Scorched wheat field is all that remains (Image: Rob Loft)

North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service Station Manager, Nick Allenby added: “Fire spreads quickly and can be unpredictable. A fire can endanger lives no matter what size it is. Even a small fire can spread quickly and divert crews away from life threatening emergencies.

“By working with partners, including North Yorkshire Police, we aim to educate children and young adults about the dangers of fire and help them understand the wider consequences of their actions before someone is seriously harmed.

“We are appealing to anyone with parental responsibilities to explain the hazards, risks and potentially devastating consequences of setting fires especially ahead of the summer holidays.”

Those worried about a young person playing with fire can complete a FireSafe referral on North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service’s website.

The service also offers a free online home fire safety check.

When reporting a fire, always call 999 when there is an immediate risk to life or property.

For non-emergencies, contact North Yorkshire Police on 101.

Firestoppers can be contacted for anonymous referrals on 0800 169 5558.