ARSONISTS are being blamed for a fire which left a horse and 50 pigeons dead.

The incident happened in Bedlington, Northumberland, at 12.20am on Saturday.

"We received a report at 00.20am on Saturday, April 1, of a caravan on fire at the allotment at Marshes Houses in West Sleekburn," said a Northumbria Police spokesman.

"We have attended the scene with the fire service and the fire was extinguished. There has been significant damage to the caravan and the neighbouring stables.

"Two horses have been removed but sadly it is believed one of the horses has died. It's is believed 50 pigeons may have also died.

"We are investigating the fire and are treating it as a malicious ignition."

  • Anyone with any information is asked to contact police on 101 quoting reference 33 01/04/17 or independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.