A MAJOR conference on the problems of arson is to be held in Blackburn next month.

Local MP and Home Secretary Jack Straw, will be a guest speaker at the seminar, which is being held at Ewood Park.

Top police and fire brigade officers will also be at the event, which will take a close look at the best ways of combating arsonists.

University of Central Lancashire Professor Ann-Rosemarie Everton, will speak at the seminar, along with Lancashire's chief fire officer Peter Holland.

Bill Peterson, a fire officer from Texas, will also speak. Mr Peterson helped to launch a hugely successful scheme aimed at cutting down on the number of arson attacks in Plano, Texas.

Two successful schemes recently pioneered in Lancashire will also come under the spotlight.

The Crimestoppers Arson Hotline and Wheels on Fire -- a scheme designed to cut down on fire attacks on cars -- will be used as examples of good working practice.

People interested in attending the event should contact Lancashire Fire Brigade's public relations officer John Taylor, on 01772 866939.