Series of small Henfield fires prompt police appeal

There have been eight reported small fires in the village since early November 2014 with the most recent being reported on Monday February 16.

A spokesperson for Sussex Police said the first incident occurred sometime between midnight and 7.50am on Saturday November 1 where a wheelie bin was set on fire and completely destroyed outside Betfred in the High Street.

A second fire, also reported on November 1, was started after cones and cardboard were set alight in the car park at the rear of Barclays Bank. On November 15 a fire was reported in Caudle Street and on November 18 a notice board was set on fire at the bus shelter in the High Street.

There were no reported fires in December however there have since been three fires where rubbish has been set alight in Henfield Library’s car park and another near a local hairdressers. A bag of shoes left by some recycling bins was also set on fire.

Sussex Police are working alongside West Sussex Fire and Rescue.

PCSO Bryony Sparks said: “We believe these arsons are linked because they are so close in terms of location. We are really keen to hear from anyone who may have any information about these fires and are asking local residents to remain vigilant and report anyone acting suspiciously in the area.”

If you have any information about these incidents please email [email protected] or call 101 quoting serial 215 of 16/02. Alternatively, call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.