POLICE are hunting arsonists after beach huts were destroyed in Harwich.

Three huts were burnt down and six were damaged in separate attacks this morning. The six huts were smashed up by vandals at the West End tip and the three-hut fire occurred in the Harbour Crescent area.

One hut was completely burnt to the ground and the two on either side were reduced to charred frames.

Owner of one of the huts, Malcolm Christie, said he had his hut for five years and was absolutely fed up.

"It must be vandals but no-one ever seems to be able to catch them," he said.

Police today said they were treating the incident as arson and were appealing for witnesses who were in the area about 6am today to call on 01255 241312.

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