FIREFIGHTERS have warned teenagers they are putting a strain on vital resources by setting fire to shrubbery and benches in a Stockton park.

In February, 61 fires were reported at the Great North Park, but firefighters say this is only a small proportion of the fires actually started, with sometimes up to 30 or 40 in a single day.

The problem is becoming so bad that leading firefighter Neville Wilson, from Stockton, has warned that crews do not have the resources to cope.

He said: "It is a very serious problem, with the park wardens putting out more fires than they are calling us out to.

"It is absolutely ludicrous. They are coming across that many they do not feel they should keep calling us out because, in their opinion, we would be there all the time.

"Sometimes there are up to 30 or 40 lit in any one day and we do not have the resources to cope.

"I don't think the kids realise the dangers they are putting themselves and others in. I am certain they have not grasped the fact that if we are continually at the park we will be unable to deal with other fires and, unfortunately, a tragedy may occur.

"The chance of a fire spreading is especially worse in the dry weather we have been experiencing lately, and we really need to get that message across."

A group of youngsters has been spotted congregating in the park at night and fears are growing for their safety.

Ian Bunting, assistant ranger at the park, is urging parents to ask their children what they have been up to and emphasise the message that fires kill.

He said: "Since the beginning of the year there have been 150 fires, which is really high.

"We have to have eyes in the backs of our heads and are unable to cope. These kids have to realise that somebody could be seriously hurt.

"Not only are they spoiling the environment, but they are putting themselves in danger."