RESIDENTS evacuated after arsonists caused a gas cylinder to explode on allotments have welcomed plans for safety inspections by firefighters.

The detailed inspections are to be carried out on council-run allotments in Hartlepool following an increasing number of arson attacks, including one in May which forced the evacuation of 35 homes.

Cleveland Fire Brigade and Hartlepool Borough Council, in partnership with allotment holders, are to start the inspections tomorrow, checking for anything that might pose a fire risk or safety hazard.

And, if the pilot scheme in Hartlepool proves effective, it could be expanded across Cleveland.

The first inspections will start at the Thornhill allotments, in the Hart Lane area of Hartlepool, where a fire caused a gas cylinder to explode, which landed in the window of a neighbouring house.

Nobody was hurt, but a number of residents had to leave while chemical experts removed remaining cylinders.

Jean Hope, of Thornhill Gardens, said she and her family welcomed the inspections.

Her son, Phillip, and daughter-in-law, Clare, live next to where the cylinder exploded, and they had to dive for cover at the time.

She said: "I think the inspections are a brilliant idea, and my son agrees.

"But when they are taking place is being publicised, which I don't think will help.

"If the allotment-holders know when the inspections are happening, they will clear out anything dangerous beforehand, when, really, they should not be there, full stop.

"We think they should do random spot checks, so people will make sure allotments are cleared at all times."

John Mennear, the council's acting assistant director of cultural services, said: "We were appalled by the incident last month, especially as we have clear guidelines about safety on our allotments.

"We are sure everyone - allotment holders and neighbouring residents alike - will welcome and support these new inspections."

Phil Lancaster, Cleveland Fire Brigade's district manager for Hartlepool, said: "Public safety is our paramount concern and the recent incident at Thornhill showed how relatively minor fires can develop into potentially tragic incidents. This pro-active lead by the council should be recognised and applauded."