Three more Worthing arsons prompt police appeal

At around 4.30am, the front door of a house in Normandy Road caught fire after a recycling box was set alight on the porch whilst a couple and their three children slept inside.

They escaped through the back of the house after being woken by a smoke alarm.

Shortly afterwards a burning leaflet was placed through the letter box of a house in Gratwicke Road, but the smoke alarm was activated and little damage was caused.

At 9.30am, a resident in Clifton Road found net curtains in her bedroom had been set on fire during the night, but the fire had burnt itself out, causing no other damage.

All three are being treated as arson and police have not ruled out a link with these and with previous similar fires in the area during October.

Detective Sergeant Mark Williams said: "So far none have resulted in serious damage or injury, but we need to find whoever is responsible before any more occur possibly resulting in major consequences.

"We are actively investigating these incidents and seek continued public co-operation in reporting suspicious sightings, particularly during the late evenings and early mornings.

"Meanwhile, local residents should also continue to take standard crime prevention steps, ensuring doors and windows, especially downstairs windows, and porches, are secured.

"We also recommend buying a good smoke alarm system, whether to prevent deliberate or just accidental fires."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Sussex Police on 0845 60 70 999, quoting serial 195/27.

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