Cars targeted by arsonists

Arsonists set fire to more than half a dozen cars during a reckless crime spree.

It happened on Kent Walk and Benmore Close, off Livsey Lane, in Heywood between 1.30am and 2.30am this morning (Tuesday 4 January 2011).

Seven cars were targeted by the arsonists: a silver Vauxhall Zafira, a silver Peugeot 206, a grey Ford Escort, a black Ford Fiesta, a blue Vauxhall Corsa, a grey Nissan Micra and a black Vauxhall Vectra.

The majority of the cars were completely destroyed.

Fire crews from Heywood and Bury attended the fire at 02.17am.

Police are now appealing to anyone who either witnessed any of the attacks, or who has information about what happened, to come forward.

Detective Constable Russell Clarke, of Rochdale CID, said: "It would appear these were a random series of attacks with no apparent motive.

"Thankfully, no-one was injured in any of these fires but any arson attack has the potential to have devastating consequences as no-one can control how big a fire may get and how quickly it might spread, so we are treating these attacks very seriously.

"For the car owners themselves, this has caused a lot of disruption and upset and they deserve to know who was responsible.

"I would appeal to anyone who either saw someone acting suspiciously in the area at about the time of the attacks, or who has any information about what happened or who is responsible, to come forward."

Anyone with information is asked to call Rochdale CID on 0161 856 8788 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.