Twenty vehicles damaged in arson attack in Heywood

Twenty vehicles were damaged and further 15 had windows smashed in an arson attack at Heywood Distribution Centre in the early hours of this morning (Friday 17 July).

A car was set on fire at a vehicle accident repair centre and the fire soon spread to a number of other vehicles before being brought under control by the fire service. 

The incident is being treated as suspicious and a joint investigation between GMP and the Fire Service has been launched into the exact circumstances surrounding the start of the fire.

Detective Constable Jason Ruff said: “This is a terrible incident that has left a local business facing substantial repair costs.

"The initial fire that started in one car has spread and caused significant damage to the rest of the vehicles in the compound.

“We are keen to speak to anyone who may have seen any suspicious activity in the area around the time the initial call was made to police at midnight or even shortly after.”

Anybody with information should contact police on 0161 856 8577 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111.