Police investigating after suspected arson attack at Blyth beach huts

A major investigation is under way after three beach huts as well as vehicles were set on fire in a Northumberland town.

The suspected arson attacks took place in Blyth on Thursday night, from around 11pm.

As well as the beach huts, three private vehicles in the South Beach area were set ablaze.

The Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service first received a call about people setting fires in the dunes at Link Road.

Officers have condemned the actions of those responsible, calling the suspected arson attacks 'appalling'.

The pictures show charred wooden beams and ash covering the floor. Credit: ITV Tyne Tees

Shortly after, there were reports of several cars up in flames on Wellesley Drive and Grenville Road.

Officers are treating the cause of the respective fires as suspected arson and believe the incidents are linked.

The interior of at least two of the beach huts have been completed destroyed. Credit: ITV Tyne Tees

Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service posted pictures on their facebook page which show the extent of the damage done to the beach huts on Blyth seafront.

Fire crews were called to the Mermaid Car Park in the town, where three beach huts were alight.

The pictures show charred wooden beams and ash covering the floor.

The inside of at least two of the beach huts have been completed destroyed.

Inspector Neil Hall, from Northumbria Police has condemned the behaviour of those involved.

He says officers are committed to identifying the offenders and taking robust action against them.

'This is a senseless act of vandalism' - Councillor Cath Homer Credit: ITV Tyne Tees

Councillor Cath Homer, Northumberland County Council’s cabinet member with responsibility for culture, leisure and tourism, also condemned the attacks.