Arson attacks 'are growing problem'

Officers say they are very concerned at the growing number of fires being deliberately started in the city - and especially about the number of blazes involving schools.

"Since the beginning of April we have a had a lot of suspicious fires around the city," Detective Chief Inspector Bryan Wilson, of Newport police, told the Argus.

"Rogerstone school was destroyed and we have arrested a youth for that, but there have also been fires at St Julians and St Andrews."

"It is the fires at the schools that concern me the most and if they are being targeted we will act accordingly.

"We have also had fires at the old art college and various other derelict sites; it seems to be a growing problem.

"Not only that we have had 16 vehicle fires in two months - most of them are joyriders trying to destroy forensic evidence.

"I don't think all these fires are connected because they vary a lot in location and type, but I do think that we have some youngsters involved in some very stupid behaviour and we need to look at that.

"We are investigating all these incidents and I appeal to anyone with information to contact us."

Meanwhile, a Newport bus company has stepped in to help a rival firm devastated by a suspected arson attack.

On Tuesday the Argus reported that Red Dragon Travel's fleet was badly damaged by fire at 1am on Sunday.

Regular shuttle services provided by the firm faced cancellation until Newport Transport lent their rivals a coach. Red Dragon Travel's owner Alan Smith (pictured) said: "Despite having three of our vehicles gutted and three others smoked damaged we've continued operating. I am very grateful to Newport Transport who said they could spare a coach because the schools are on half term.

"In business we are rivals but they have shown there is the decency to help me out after this awful fire."

Anyone with information about the Red Dragon fire - or any of the other recent fires - should contact Gwent Police on 01633 244999.