TWO suspected arson attacks have caused shock across Clacton.
The incidents occurred in the early hours on Wellesley Road and Old Road, both close to properties.
A rubbish fire was reported in Old Road on Tuesday at 12.45am which spread to an end-terrace house.
Simon Rochdale, who lives nearby, said: "I had no idea about the fire until this morning.
"It was a massive shock - too close to home for comfort."
Just eight minutes later, at 12.53am, fire crews were called to a shed blaze on Wellesley Road which had spread to fences.
The second fire is believed to be deliberate, while the Old Road incident was described as "possibly deliberate" and remains under investigation.
Chelle Cottrell, of Clacton, said: "The firemen must be absolutely shattered with staff shortages and part-time fire stations.
"They really don't need this adding to the risk to life."
A spokesman for Weeley Fire Station, which attended both incidents with Clacton Fire Station, said: "Both fires are believed to have been started deliberately.
"Deliberately setting fires puts lives at risk, ties up emergency crews and can cause devastating damage.
"One of the fires we attended spread across two gardens, damaging two sheds and multiple fence panels before crews brought it under control.
"If you know who is deliberately setting fires, please don't stay silent.
"You can report information anonymously to Firestoppers."
Essex Police have confirmed they are investigating both incidents, which they do not believe to be linked, and are appealing for witnesses.
Clacton resident Martin Ockenden said: "If you live in the area and have CCTV or ring doorbells you should review them and contact Firestoppers if you find anything suspicious.
"You should also review where you store your bins."
Anyone with information or footage is urged to come forward, quoting crime reference number 42/119312/26 for the Wellesley Road incident, and 42/119308/26 for Old Road.
Share