ARSONISTS are ruining an important coastal nature reserve, police are warning.

More than one fire a week has been deliberately started at Coatham Marsh, Redcar, over the last few months, destroying a sanctuary for more than 200 species of birds and a variety of wildflowers.

Police are now asking locals to report any arson activities, and any information they might have about the perpetrators.

Coatham Marsh has a series of pools and a reed swamp, the last remaining wildlife habitats that have survived the industrialisation of almost the entire south Tees estuary.

The reserve is bordered by Redcar's blast furnace, and parts of Redcar, and houses mammals such as foxes and stoats, as well as birds of prey including barn owls.

A statement from Cleveland Police said: "Recently there has been an increase in the amount of fires deliberately set in this area. In April there were 11 fires and in May there were 11 fires. Not only is this behaviour threatening our wildlife but it is also a waste of valuable resources as our Fire Brigade respond and may ultimately mean a life is at risk if they are not available for the real emergencies."

Anyone with information about arson in their area is asked to call Crimestoppers confidentially on 0800 555111 or visit clevelandfire.gov.uk/arson