19 November 2012 Last updated at 11:20 ET

Skelmersdale arson attacks investigated by police

Eleven arson attacks are being investigated by police in Skelmersdale, West Lancashire.

The attacks, where cars have been torched and wheelie bins set on fire, have taken place over the past three weeks in areas around Birch Green.

In one incident, a bin was set alight and pushed up against the door of a house. Four people had to be rescued.

Lancashire police are urging people to be vigilant and to report any suspicious activity.

The fires have been started in Alderley, Beech Trees, Acre Gate, Birkrig, Banks Barn and Firbeck.

Sgt Lynette Kelly said: "People need to understand how dangerous this is.

"It is only a matter of time before this sort of mindless behaviour takes a life and we want to put a stop to this before that happens.

"Not only would I urge people to come forward if they have any information that they think might help but I would also ask people to make sure loose bins are secured where possible and if you have a bin store, make sure this is locked."