Rubbish warning after arson attack damages Jarrow homes

Firebugs set light to cardboard and bins between two houses in York Avenue, Jarrow, shortly before 9pm last night.

"They had wheeled bins and cardboard in the sidepath between the houses," said watch manager Trevor Smith.

"We believe youths who have been seen in the area have set fire to the cardboard, that has spread to the bins and then to a picket fence between the two houses.

"It has reached both houses, causing cracks in the kitchen windows and some of the guttering has been melted by the heat from the flames.

"The householders of both houses were quite shocked. The police have been informed

"It could have been a lot worse. Thankfully one of the neighbours could smell the burning, could smell the smoke, and raised the alarm.

"The flames were quite high between the two houses but she noticed it within five minutes of it being set and we were there within minutes of her calling.

"We want to make people aware of the risks, especially at this time of year when we are likely to have more cardboard and the like to dispose of."