A YOUNG arsonist is being hunted after starting 20 fires in Burnley.

Firefighters said the youth seemed to see it "as a game" but needed to realise he was putting lives at risk.

Phil Emmett, from the fire reduction team at Burnley fire station, also warned the arsonist that his actions were diverting firefighters from more serious fires.

The arsonist has started fires in: l Wheelie bins in the Spring Hill area of Burnley, with six set alight in one night and a further six in Berry Street l Four bins in Laithe Street l A skip in Healey Wood Road As well as recorded incidents, firefighters believe he may be responsible for more fires.

Mr Emmett said the arsonist probably thought it was "a game" but his actions could have serious repercussions.

He said: "This is a serious problem and there is a lot of work being done, so we are confident that whoever it is will be caught eventually. This person is putting lives at risk because for every one of these fires, we have to send out a full crew and fire engine.

"While we are attending these,we could be delayed on their way to a real emergency.

"I don't think they realise the danger they put other people in when they do things like this.

"Not only are they diverting vital resources, but small fires like this can easily spread to become much bigger ones."

He advised residents not to put out their wheelie bins until the night before collection, and to bring them back into yards as soon as possible.

Inspector Vikki Crorken, of Burnley police, said: "I would urge anyone who knows who is responsible for setting these fires to come forward.

"It might seem like a harmless prank, but both police and firefighters know that it is not.

"Arson, even at this level, can bring a punishment of six months in prison, as well as big fines."

Anyone with information about the fires should contact police on 01282 425001 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.