EMERGENCY services have teamed up to crack down on deliberate fires in Stanley.

Police, the fire service and Durham County Council will work together to tackle the problem, which increase during the six-week summer holidays.

The operation, launched with a cleanup operation at Memorial Park, South Moor, on Wednesday, will see increased patrols around the park and at Piney Woods.

Posters are being put up around the affected areas reminding people of the impact that dealing with fires has on emergency services with a warning from police, declaring “we are watching you”.

Acting Sergeant Gary Smith of Stanley Police, said: “We want to reduce the amount of fires set in the wooded areas of Stanley during the six-week summer holidays.

“As well as increased patrols, the posters and litter pick, we would encourage local people to contact the police with any information they may have relating to fire setting in the area.”

He added: “Anyone thinking about deliberately setting a fire needs to realise that they are not only risking their own lives but potentially the lives of others, as well as impacting on our response to other emergency calls.”

County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service district manager Chris Williams said: “Our service has been part of the national response to the moorland fire in Lancashire, so we now only too well, the devastation a rapidly spreading fire can cause.

“Our crews are dedicated to working with the police and council throughout the summer holidays to try and reduce not only the number of fires and the affect they have on the local community but also the demand placed on the emergency services at this time of year.”

Ian Hoult, Durham County Council’s neighbourhood protection manager, said: “Deliberately setting things on fire can put people in real danger as well as being a needless drain on resources.

“There is also the potential for pollution while burnt out cars and other items can spoil the appearance of our beautiful county.

“We are committed to continuing the work we do with partners to reduce the deliberate lighting of fires and would appeal to residents and businesses to play their part by ensuring waste is disposed of correctly and that wheelie bins are not left in public places longer than is necessary.”

Suspicious activity should be reported to police by calling 101, or anonymously on Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Any information, names or footage of those involved can also be sent to stanley@durham.pnn.police.uk.