Arson attack suspected as caravan burns

Firefighters were called out in Saltney on Monday (July 21st) to tackle a caravan fire which sent a trail of thick black smoke up into the sky.

Reports of the blaze on Wenlock Way were received at 07:30 and two fire engines were summoned in response.

After a lengthy battle with the flames which ended at 08:45, police investigated the charred vehicle and arrived at the conclusion that the cause of the fire was arson.

Cheshire Police spokesperson Rachel Hayes told the Chester Evening Leader: "We had the report at 08:50 and it is being treated as arson.

"Nobody was inside the caravan, of course if they were it would have been treated a lot more seriously."

Chester City Council spokesman Michael McGivern also explained that the caravan, which was in poor condition, had not been towed away as the council were serving a notice on it.

One resident who saw the blaze develop commented: "There was a lot of smoke and it was quite scary to watch."

There have been a number of similar incidents around the country in recent weeks, further highlighting the need for caravan insurance should the worst happen.

25/07/2008 17:04:04