A Basildon school was firebombed three times by arsonists in a late-night attack.
Three bottles filled with lit petrol and stuffed with rags were hurled at Whitmore County Infant School.
One was thrown on the roof, the other hit the side of the school and another landed in a bush before exploding into a ball of flames.
Firefighters arrived at the scene around 11.30pm and battled to control the fires before any serious damage was done.
Sub-officer Andy White, from Basildon fire station, said: "The school had a lucky escape.
"It could have been a lot worse. Luckily the damage was only superficial. Incidents with petrol bombs are very rare but very serious."
Acting Sgt Keith Nicholls, from Basildon police, said: "It is very serious and could have caused a lot of damage. We are treating the incident as arson."
The side of the building and a couple of windows were damaged by smoke and the roof was slightly burnt.
Published Monday August 16, 2004
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