Eston Hills: Twelve youths interviewed by police in connection with fires

Twelve youths have been interviewed by police in connection with the fires at a Teesside beauty spot.

Eston Neighbourhood Police Team interviewed the youngsters under caution following the fires on Eston Hills on Sunday March 8.

Police believe the fires, the latest in a string of similar incidents, were started maliciously and have since been hunting those responsible for starting them.

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A statement issued by Cleveland Police said: “Eston Neighbourhood Police Team today interviewed 12 youths under caution in respect of last week’s fires on Eston Hills.

“This would not have been possible without the assistance and information provided by the community in response to our appeal for information.

“We thank all members of the community who provided us with valuable information.

“It’s your area, we can’t police it without your help. Thank you.

“Inquiries will continue and more interviews are expected in the coming week.”

Officers and firefighters were called to Eston Hills at about 4.30pm on Sunday March 8 following reports of “from several members of the public” who had seen youngsters setting fires.

As a result there were several pockets of flames and one large blaze on the north side of the hill.

Fire crews, led by Grangetown Fire Station, were at the scene for several hours battling the flames.

Speaking at the time, a Cleveland Police spokeswoman said: “We would like to remind children that deliberately setting fires is extremely dangerous and they are putting themselves and others at risk in doing so.

“These fires also cause damage to the natural environment which is there for everyone’s enjoyment. We would urge parents to check where their children are and what they are doing - and to speak to them about staying safe.”

A spokesperson for the force also urged parents to be proactive.

“If your child returns home smelling of smoke, or you come across potential suspects, I would urge you to ring the police,” they said.

Over the years, campaigns to deter youngsters from starting fires there have been carried out.

Cleveland Fire Brigade has also used a specialist 120ft high CCTV camera to look for suspicious behaviour and fires.

Speaking last year, John Feeney, Cleveland Fire Brigade’s district manager, said: “Deliberate grass and moorland fires are reckless in the extreme. They damage our beautiful countryside and divert our resources away from dealing with real emergencies where lives may be at risk.”

Anyone with information should call police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.