FIREFIGHTERS wasted almost two hours chasing a string of small fires set by petty arsonists.

Crews from Colchester fire station were first called to a small grass fire in High Woods Country Park, Colchester, at about 2pm.

They swiftly put out the blaze and returned to the fire station in Cowdray Avenue.

Within minutes,, at about 2.30pm, another call came in to a second fire in the park.

The firefighters followed the same routine, only to return at 3pm to put out a third blaze.

Trevor Watson, station officer for White Watch, said: “Deliberate fires use up resources which could be used elsewhere “If we are attending fires which were started deliberately, we cannot attend anything elsewhere.

“These fires were set in undergrowth backing on to houses, which also created the potential problem of spreading to the homes.”

He added: “This is a mindless act. The main thing is, we can’t be in two places at once.”

Bob Penny, parks and recreation manager for the borough council, said: “On Wednesday ,the fire brigade was called to High Woods Country Park after a small fire broke out.

“This is not an unusual event and fires occur during school holidays and the summer period.

“One of the countryside rangers was able to extinguish most of the burning leaf litter before the fire crew arrived. It was a ground fire and no permanent damage was caused.

“Colchester Council wishes to ensure the enjoyment and safety of all at the park. Countryside ranger patrols ensure we remain vigilant throughout the park.

“The council would advise park users to contact the emergency services immediately if they notice something untoward.”

Sgt Phil Carpenter, of Colchester police, added: “Fire is an exceptionally dangerous thing to play around with and the consequences, if it goes wrong, are huge.

“I’d ask anyone who witnesses any individuals involved in this sort of behaviour to contact us immediately so we can take the necessary action."