North Wales' Arson Reduction Team is appealing to residents to help them stamp out deliberate firestarting as spring approaches.

Kevin Jones, Arson Reduction Manager said: "As the nights get lighter and the weather does eventually start to become warmer, we often see a rise in the number of deliberately set fires. Clocks go forward on Sunday and children are on their Easter holidays - so we're appealing to the community to help us tackle deliberate firestarters.

"I would like to take this opportunity to appeal to parents to be aware of the whereabouts of their children and impress upon them the message that deliberate fires endanger lives.

"Deliberate fires place tremendous pressure on resources, with our crews tied up for a considerable length of time trying to bring them under control which prevents them from attending genuine emergencies.

"Remember - setting fires is a criminal offence and we are actively working alongside North Wales Police to combat deliberate incidents, employing the police helicopter to pinpoint the fires and to look out for perpetrators.

"Anyone with information on such crimes is advised to anonymously call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."